Makayla Mitchell Killed In OKC Sledding Crash; Two Arrested For Murder

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK. (THECOUNT) — Makayla Mitchell, 31, was killed Sunday night in northwest Oklahoma City when a sled she was riding on was struck by a vehicle, according to police. The suspects arrested in connection with the crash are Angel Walzier, 22, who was pulling the sled with his vehicle, and James Kirk, 24, who struck Mitchell in a separate vehicle, authorities said.

Police said the fatal incident occurred near Northwest 81st Street and Northwest Walker Avenue. Mitchell had been riding on a sled that was being pulled by a vehicle operated by Walzier. Investigators reported that the rope connecting the sled to the car broke, leaving Mitchell stranded in the roadway.

According to law enforcement, Kirk was driving a separate vehicle in the same area and struck Mitchell after she was left in the street. Emergency responders arrived shortly afterward and pronounced Mitchell dead at the scene. Oklahoma City police are treating the incident as a serious criminal matter.

Police confirmed both Walzier and Kirk were evaluated by a Drug Recognition Officer at the scene. Officers reported that both drivers showed signs of impairment. Blood draw warrants were obtained to collect evidence related to possible substance use.

Kirk was arrested and booked on multiple charges, including second-degree murder, aggravated DUI, child endangerment, and causing a fatality collision without a valid driver’s license. Walzier was arrested on second-degree murder and aggravated DUI charges. Both remain in custody pending further investigation and prosecution.

The Oklahoma City Police Department said Northwest 81st Street and Northwest Walker Avenue is typically a busy area on weekend evenings. Officers are reviewing witness statements, traffic patterns, and other evidence to reconstruct the events leading up to the fatal collision. Neighbors described the incident as a tragedy and emphasized that sledding on public streets can be extremely dangerous.

Authorities noted that the incident is unusual, involving a sled being pulled by a vehicle on a public roadway. Police are continuing to collect statements from witnesses and have asked anyone with additional information to contact the department.

Mitchell’s death represents a rare but severe traffic-related fatality in Oklahoma City. Officials reminded the public of the importance of following local ordinances and safety protocols regarding sledding and vehicle operation. The combination of sleds and moving vehicles in areas with traffic presents a high-risk situation, which contributed to this fatal outcome.

Police confirmed that ongoing evidence collection, including forensic examination of the vehicles and scene, is underway. Investigators will continue interviewing witnesses, reviewing available video footage, and compiling evidence to ensure a thorough investigation. Authorities noted that charges could be updated as new information emerges.

The Oklahoma City community was reminded of the dangers of mixing recreational activities with motor vehicles. Officials emphasized that sledding, even as a recreational activity, should only occur in safe, designated areas far from public roads and traffic.

No additional information has been released regarding the prior criminal history or licensing status of Kirk or Walzier beyond the current charges. Police said the investigation remains active and that updates will be issued as developments occur.

Mitchell’s family has not yet released a public statement. Police continue to coordinate with the family regarding next steps in the investigation. No other arrests have been made in connection with the crash at this time.

The Oklahoma City Police Department urged anyone with information about the crash to contact the department at (405) 231-2121. Authorities are seeking witnesses or residents who may have observed the events leading to the fatal sledding incident on Sunday evening.

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