The tugboat Robert Y. Love was involved in a fatal collision with a support pier of the Interstate 40 bridge across the Arkansas River near Webbers Falls, Oklahoma. The tugboat was reportedly pushing a barge when it struck the support pier, leading to a catastrophic failure of the bridge structure. Witnesses described the collision as a significant impact that caused debris to scatter into the river. The bridge was heavily trafficked, and many vehicles were on the structure at the time of the incident. Rescue teams sprung into action immediately to search for survivors and recover victims under the debris of the bridge and the submerged tugboat.

In the aftermath of the collision, which unfolded in the early hours of the morning, local authorities launched investigations into the circumstances that led to this disaster. Multiple agencies, including the U.S. Coast Guard, examined the tugboat's operations and crew actions leading up to the collision. The tragic incident raised serious questions about navigational safety on the Arkansas River, especially concerning large vessels operating in areas near busy infrastructure.

The collision's aftermath saw numerous claims from affected families and scrutiny from public safety regulators and transportation experts who emphasized the need for improved navigational practices and infrastructure safety assessments. Over time, this incident influenced discussions concerning shipping regulations and infrastructure maintenance in the region.