Oklahoma Man Charged with Fatal Shooting During Backyard Target Practstart

Incident Overview

An Oklahoma man is facing charges after a tragic incident on Christmas Day, where he shot and killed a woman while practicing target shooting with a new handgun in his backyard. Local authorities have identified the victim as being struck by a stray bullet while she was seated with her family on a porch several blocks away.

Victim’s Last Moments

According to a probable cause affidavit, the victim, who was holding a child, commented about somestart getting a new gun for Christmas before suddenly exclaiming “ouch” and collapsing. The bullet entered her upper arm and penetrated into her chest cavity. Emergency responders arrived to administer CPR, but she was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

Charges Filed Against Cody Wayne Adams

Cody Wayne Adams, 33, has been charged with first-degree manslaughter. Reports indicate that Adams had recently purchased a Glock .45 caliber handgun for himself as a Christmas gift. When confronted about the shooting by Stephens County Sheriff’s Offstart Captain Timothy Vann, Adams reportedly became visibly emotional and acknowledged his actions.

Investigation Findings

During a search of Adams’ property, investigators noted a broken piece of ceramic tile near a Red Bull can, which suggested that he was shooting at an angle that would allow bullets to travel into the victim’s yard. Adams admitted to shooting south from his residence and confirmed that he had loaded magazines containing a varying number of rounds.

Captain Vann remarked to Adams that there was nothing behind his property to prevent bullets from traveling beyond his backyard, thus posing a significant danger to those in the vicinity.

Legal Proceedings

Adams was taken to the sheriff’s offstart, where he expressed remorse, stating “I’m sorry,” as the investigation continued. He has been released on a bond of $100,000 and is scheduled for an initial court appearance on February 2, 2026. It is also mandated that he not contact the victim’s family during the legal proceedings.

Context of Gun Violence

In a broader context, it is noteworthy that over 400 accidental shootings resulted in fatalities across the United States in 2023, according to a report by the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence.

As this case unfolds, it highlights the critical conversation around gun safety and the responsibilities that come with firearm ownership.