OSU coach’s parents settle wrongful death suit

PONCA CITY, Okla. (AP) – The parents of an Oklahoma State University assistant women’s basketball coach killed in an Arkansas plane crash settled a wrongful death claim for $250,000, according to Kay County records.

The Oklahoman reported Monday (http://bit.ly/1By81QJ ) the parents of Miranda Serna reached a confidential settlement with the pilot’s insurance company, but details became public when her divorced parents disagreed on how to split the money.

Kay County Judge Philip A. Ross awarded Nettie Herrera of Guadalupita, New Mexico, 70 percent, citing her constant companionship with her daughter. John Serna of Ledoux, New Mexico, did not appeal the ruling.

Serna and head coach Kurt Budke died Nov. 17, 2011, while on a recruiting trip. The pilot and his wife also died. Lawyers say Budke’s widow also reached a confidential settlement.