Goldsby firefighters Todd Pendleton and Bryan Jenkins died when their tanker left the road and struck a tree while they were responding to a structure fire

By Paxson Haws
The Norman Transcript

GOLDSBY, Okla. — Two volunteer firefighters with the Goldsby Fire Department died early Friday morning while responding to a structure fire.

According to a statement from the town of Goldsby, Bryan Jenkins, 64, and Todd Pendleton, 62, died in a motor vehicle accident while operating a fire department tanker.

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“The loss of these individuals is devastating to our town and the entire firefighting community,” the statement read. “We ask that you please keep their families and our first responders in your thoughts and prayers during this unimaginably difficult time.

Jenkins was a 35-year veteran firefighter and has served Cleveland County since 2014, according to a press release from Alyse Moore, director of communications for Cleveland County.

He has also served as the Cleveland County Fairgrounds manager since 2024. The release described Jenkins as a public servant who was full of courage, professionalism and an “unwavering commitment to those around him.”

“This tragic loss is deeply felt across the county and community,” the Cleveland County release stated. “Our deepest condolences go out to Bryan Jenkins’ family, friends, colleagues, and fellow first responders during this incredibly difficult time. We are also thinking of and praying for the family of the other first responder who lost their life.”

Pendleton, a 12-year veteran firefighter, has worked at The Oklahoman since 1988, being promoted to art director in 2004

“We are devastated by the loss of Todd and his colleague, Chief Jenkins,” said Ray Rivera, executive editor of The Oklahoman told the organization. “Todd loved his work as a firefighter, and, as a journalist, he was one of the most talented, kindest people any of us have ever worked with. Our hearts go out to both families.”

According to Lt. Mark Southall with Oklahoma Highway Patrol, in the initial investigation, the fire truck was headed eastbound on Redbud Road, departed the roadway to the right, moved back on the roadway and departed to the left where it struck a tree.

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