OKC Thunder Co-Owner Killed In Car Crash ... Apparent Suicide

Aubrey McClendon -- co-owner of the OKC Thunder -- crashed his car into a bridge and killed himself in what appears to be a suicide mission ... one day after he was charged with conspiracy.

Law enforcement says McClendon was going VERY fast in his 2013 Chevy Tahoe when he veered out of his lane and struck a bridge. The car exploded and was quickly engulfed in flames.

Officials say there was no indication McClendon tried to stop at any point before impact.

The cops didn't specifically call it a suicide attempt -- but it sure appears that way.

The timing is bizarre considering the 56-year-old was charged with conspiracy in an alleged oil and gas scheme on Tuesday evening. He was facing 10 years in prison if convicted.

McClendon had publicly denied any wrongdoing.