Shocking Viral Video Confirmed: Inmate Caught Dangling from Transport Van on I-40

A truly astonishing incident unfolded on Interstate 40 in Oklahoma, leaving countless viewers stunned as a viral video captured the harrowing sight of an inmate dangling precariously from the window of an Oklahoma Department of Corrections (ODOC) transport van. Adding to the gravity of the situation, ODOC officials have now officially confirmed the authenticity of the highly circulated footage, igniting concerns about prisoner transport safety.

The alarming event took place on Tuesday morning, December 5th, 2023, along a stretch of I-40 near Mustang Road and Council Road.

The inmate at the center of this incredible scene has been identified as 30-year-old Jeremiah Wilkins. At the time, Wilkins was being transported from the Oklahoma State Penitentiary (OSP) in McAlester to a private facility in Oklahoma City, where he was scheduled to receive crucial mental health treatment.

According to ODOC representatives, two transport officers were present in the van during the incident.

While the exact details of how Wilkins managed to maneuver himself out of the vehicle's window remain under investigation, the officers quickly became aware of the perilous situation. They promptly brought the van to a safe stop, and thankfully, Wilkins was secured back inside without sustaining any injuries or causing harm to anyone else.

There was no escape; rather, it was a deeply concerning breach of secure transport protocols.

The Oklahoma Department of Corrections has wasted no time in launching a thorough investigation into the matter. Their primary objective is to understand the exact sequence of events that led to this security lapse and to implement necessary measures to prevent any such occurrences in the future.

The safety of the public, their staff, and the inmates under their care remains ODOC's highest priority, a sentiment echoed in their official statement following the incident.

Adding another layer of seriousness to the situation, records show that Jeremiah Wilkins was convicted of first-degree murder in 2013.

This background underscores the critical importance of maintaining stringent security protocols during the transport of inmates, particularly those with serious criminal histories and complex needs. The viral video serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by correctional facilities and the continuous need for vigilance and robust security measures in all aspects of their operations.