2007 Ford Explorer oil light

the engine oil light came up while driving and the engine stopped on its own. i checked the engine oil and discovered it was still within the manufacturers gauge. What could be the cause?

The oil light typically comes on when the oil pressure is low, not the level (though some cars do have a level light too). I would have the car towed to the mechanic so they can hook up their own pressure gauge to make sure the pressure is within specifications. It could be as simple as your oil pressure sensor is bad

Were you able to restart the engine?