What was meant to be a joyful celebration turned into heartbreak on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024, as 18-year-old Connor Barba from Norman, Oklahoma lost his life in a car accident while traveling with his mother to a Kansas City Chiefs game.
The crash occurred just before 4 p.m. on U.S. 169 near Cherryvale, Kansas, when a southbound 2014 Chevrolet Camaro driven by 45-year-old Joseph Savage crossed the center line, hitting their northbound 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe head-on. After the initial impact, the Camaro rotated back into the southbound lane and collided with a 2012 Dodge Ram driven by a 53-year-old Oklahoma man. The devastating accident took the lives of Barba and Savage. Barba’s mother, 41-year-old Megan Barnett, was critically injured and was admitted to the intensive care unit at a hospital in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Barnett had gifted him tickets to the Chiefs’ game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a surprise birthday present, planning the trip to give her son an unforgettable experience. Both were excited for the outing, with Barba particularly eager to see Buccaneers Quarterback Baker Mayfield, who had previously played for his home team, the University of Oklahoma Sooners.
They were also looking forward to seeing the Chiefs play and potentially catching a glimpse of Taylor Swift, who has become a regular at Chiefs games, supporting her boyfriend, team player Travis Kelce. Family members said that the anticipation of this event had filled Barba with excitement and happiness in the days leading up to their trip.
As their vehicle was struck, Barba, who was properly restrained and driving, instinctively swerved and braked, attempting to avoid the Camaro. According to his uncle, Colin Barnett, Barba’s quick actions likely saved his mother’s life as he took the brunt of the impact. Barnett admired his nephew’s caring nature, stating that his quick reflexes reflected his dedication to family.
Authorities confirmed that Barba died at the scene, while his mother was rushed to the hospital in serious condition, where she faces a long and challenging recovery.
The family has received an outpouring of support from their Norman community, with loved ones and neighbors coming together to remember Barba as a kind and spirited young man. Friends and family described him as joyful with a contagious smile, recalling his love for sports and his dedication to friends and family.
His death has sent waves of grief throughout the community as family members and supporters pay tribute to a life full of potential and love. Barnett’s brother, who set up a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral and medical expenses, wrote that his sister is facing an extensive recovery process.
The fundraiser, which has already raised over $112,000, including a $10,000 donation from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers organization, shows the strength of community solidarity during this time.