Two Oklahomans, James Kirk (23-24) and Angel Walzier (22), face second-degree murder and DUI charges after 30-31-year-old Makayla Mitchell died in a sledding mishap on a dark Oklahoma City road late Sunday, January 25, 2026.
Incident Overview
Mitchell was riding a sled towed by rope from Walzier’s southbound vehicle on North Walker Avenue near NW 81st Street around 11 p.m. The rope snapped, leaving her stranded in the unlit roadway, where Kirk’s following vehicle struck and killed her at the scene.
Investigation and Arrests
Poor visibility from no streetlights contributed, but police suspected impairment in both drivers after a drug recognition evaluation. Blood tests confirmed issues, leading to arrests; Kirk also faces child endangerment and no-license charges.
Victim’s Background
Mitchell, a proud mother to a nearly 2-year-old daughter whose birthday neared, was outgoing, a great cook, and beloved. Friends called it a “tragic mistake” by the sledding group, questioning the murder charges.
