Cara Newton Critically Injured in Poteau Train-Vehicle Collision on January 10, 2026
On January 10, 2026, a train-vehicle collision occurred near the intersection of 290th Street and U.S. Highway 59 in Poteau, Oklahoma, resulting in serious injuries to two individuals. Cara Newton, a 19-year-old passenger in a red 1998 Chevrolet, was airlifted to a Tulsa-area hospital and reported to be in critical but stable condition. The vehicle, operated by local residents, collided with a train operated by Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railroad. Preliminary reports indicate that the railroad crossing’s warning systems were functioning at the time of the incident.
The driver, Nathan McBribe, was transported by ground ambulance to a Fort Smith-area hospital and described as possibly critical. Emergency personnel, including police, firefighters, and state and county law enforcement, responded promptly. Investigators continue to examine the circumstances of the crash to determine the factors contributing to the collision. Further information will be released as the investigation progresses.
