Oklahoma Woman Fatally Struck by Stray Bullet During Christmas Target Practice
STEFENS COUNTY, Okla. — A Christmas celebration turned tragic in Stephens County, Oklahoma, when a stray bullet fired during backyard target practice fatally struck a woman sitting on her front porch, authorities reported. Cody Adams, 33, faces a first-degree manslaughter charge after investigators determined that a bullet he fired from a newly purchased Glock .45-caliber handgun traveled beyond his property and struck Sandra Phelps on December 25.
According to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, deputies responded to the scene at approximately 3:15 p.m. after receiving reports of a shooting. Phelps, 59, was holding a child on her porch when she was struck. Witnesses told law enforcement they heard gunshots intermittently over several minutes from a nearby property before Phelps exclaimed “ouch” and collapsed.
The investigation revealed that the bullet entered Phelps’ upper right arm and traveled into her chest, consistent with a steep downward trajectory. A canvass of the surrounding area identified Adams’ residence as the source of the gunfire. Authorities noted that Adams’ backyard lacked an adequate shooting backstop, allowing the bullet to travel beyond his property lines. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives guidelines emphasize the importance of safe backstops during firearms use to prevent such accidents.
Adams told deputies he had been practicing shooting at a Red Bull can placed on the ground. Investigators found spent shell casings and a piece of broken ceramic tile near the target, which likely caused the bullet to deviate from its intended path. The Stephens County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Adams expressed remorse, stating he was “sorry” and became visibly upset upon learning that his bullet caused Phelps’ death.
Court records show Adams appeared before a judge on Friday and was released on a $100,000 bond. The charge of first-degree manslaughter carries serious legal consequences, reflecting the gravity of the incident. The Office of Justice Programs notes that manslaughter charges often arise in cases involving reckless or negligent conduct resulting in death.
This tragedy highlights the critical need for firearm safety and awareness, especially in residential areas. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that unintentional firearm injuries remain a significant public health concern, underscoring the importance of responsible gun ownership and safe practices.
As the community mourns the loss of Sandra Phelps, law enforcement continues to stress the dangers of discharging firearms without proper precautions. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the potential consequences when safety measures are overlooked during recreational shooting activities.
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