HARTSHORNE, Okla. — A joyful community gathering turned to heartbreak this weekend after a tragic accident at the annual “H-Town Throwdown” festival left two respected public servants dead and several others injured. The incident, which occurred during the event in downtown Hartshorne, has shaken Pittsburg County and surrounding communities to their core.
Authorities say a Volkswagen lost control and crashed into the crowd during the event, resulting in the deaths of Justin Faulkner, husband of Hartshorne Mayor Ashley McCullan Faulkner, and Brian Mathis, a Haileyville Police Officer. Both men were on duty supporting the event when the accident occurred. Longtime community member Jim McCoy has also been identified among those impacted by the tragic incident.
Emergency crews, fellow officers, firefighters, medical personnel, and bystanders rushed to render aid as chaos unfolded. Despite their efforts, Faulkner and Mathis did not survive. Several individuals remain hospitalized as investigators continue to determine the cause of the vehicle’s sudden loss of control.
A Town in Grief
Justin Faulkner was a dedicated Hartshorne firefighter known for his courage, loyalty, and unwavering service. Friends and colleagues describe him as a man who “showed up for everyone,” a devoted husband, and a cherished member of the department.
“He always put others first,” one fellow firefighter shared. “He served with heart. Losing him this way is something we’re all struggling to understand.”
Officer Brian Mathis, serving with the Haileyville Police Department, is remembered as a steadfast protector of his community. A colleague described him as “the kind of officer every small town hopes to have — kind, fair, and always willing to help.”
The tragedy has especially devastated Mayor Ashley McCullan Faulkner, who has asked for privacy as she grieves the loss of her husband while continuing to support the community they both served with pride.
A Community Comes Together
Counselors, chaplains, and peer teams have been made available to first responders, event organizers, and affected residents. Vigils are being planned, and memorial tributes have begun to fill sidewalks, fire station steps, and the entrance to City Hall.
Residents across Hartshorne and Haileyville describe the day as one that will be remembered forever — not for celebration, but for collective sorrow.
“We are a small town. We are a family. When we lose one of our own — especially like this — we all feel it,” said a local resident, holding back tears.
Moving Forward
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is leading the investigation, and no additional information regarding potential contributing factors has been released at this time.
For now, the community is focused on healing — and honoring the lives of two men who dedicated themselves to protecting others.
Funeral and memorial arrangements will be shared as they become available.
Today, Hartshorne mourns.
But it also remembers.
Justin Faulkner and Brian Mathis served with courage — and they will not be forgotten. 🕊️