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Tuesday, Attorney General John O’Connor filed first-degree felony murder charges against Joshua Josiah Toliver, 23, after an investigation found the drugs he sold to an Oklahoma County man were the cause of his death.
According to court documents, Toliver is accused of selling fake oxycodone pills that contained fentanyl to Cole Stamps, 27, in September 2021.
A medical examiner determined the probable cause of death was “Acute Fentanyl Toxicity,” and found 14 ng/mL of fentanyl in Stamps’ blood.
During the investigation, authorities seized more pills that tested positive for fentanyl and a loaded semi-automatic pistol in Toliver’s residence.
Toliver is also charged with Trafficking of Fentanyl, Aggravated Trafficking of Fentanyl, and the Use of a Communication Device to Facilitate the Distribution of a Controlled Dangerous Substance.
Under Oklahoma law, a person commits the crime of murder in the first degree, regardless of malice, when that person or any other person takes the life of a human being, if the death of a human results from the unlawful distribution of controlled dangerous substance or synthetic controlled substance. | 2022-02-16T06:15:07Z | www.news9.com | Oklahoma Man Charged With First-Degree Felony Murder In Fentanyl Overdose Death News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620c2797a48920070e11aa1e/oklahoma-man-charged-with-firstdegree-felony-murder-in-fentanyl-overdose-death | https://www.news9.com/story/620c2797a48920070e11aa1e/oklahoma-man-charged-with-firstdegree-felony-murder-in-fentanyl-overdose-death |
Oklahoma’s Center for Poison & Drug Information has seen a spike in the number of Oklahoma teens poisoning themselves with prescription drugs.
The state’s numbers show that 51 teen girls have attempted to self-harm with pain medication. Oklahoma is not the only state seeing numbers grow, it is a trend nationwide.
"Typically, the numbers that we see historically have always been that males have a higher rate of self-harm or suicide than females," explained Meg Cannon, the Prevention Program Manager for Suicide with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.
The spike in the use of over-the-counter pain medicines for self-harm has mental health professionals scrambling to find a common thread.
"It's running the ages between 11 and 18. I thought maybe we could look at something geographical, see if it was more urban versus rural, and it just seems to be scattered across the entire state and across the entire spectrum," explained Cannon.
Suicide is Oklahoma's second most common cause of death for people ages 5 to 34. Cannon said teens who think about self-harm will often say it beforehand.
"[They say things like] I'm thinking about hurting myself or I just don't know that I want to live anymore, or I wish there was a way out." Cannon added, "But you need to go 'hey wait a minute, that could be a problem' and you need to probe further and ask questions."
One major way experts say parents can find out if a child has an emotional struggle, just to talk to them.
"There are psychological stressors and pain that is going on that doesn't seem to have a way out. Especially if it feels like you're trapping inside of that," explained Counseling and Recovery of Oklahoma's Clinical Director, Andre Campbell.
"Not necessarily that I'm going to interrogate you and tell you that you're wrong. Just being curious about what's happening, how are things going," said Campbell. He suggested, "For example I could say 'Well I know we had some good things happen today, what are those things?' Then you may have some bad things happen today, what are those things?"
It helps create a strong line of communication if parents are open to kids as well.
"If the child is able to see the parent, do it and take that risk in communicating then they also feel it's okay to take that risk," said Campbell.
Experts also emphasize that it doesn't have to be a parent, but make sure a child has an adult they trust to open up to. Also, look at how they're interacting with their friends. | 2022-02-16T06:15:13Z | www.news9.com | Oklahoma Poison Center Sees Spike In Teens Self-Harming With Pain Meds News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620c2e33be9487071d035af5/oklahoma-poison-center-sees-spike-in-teens-selfharming-with-pain-meds- | https://www.news9.com/story/620c2e33be9487071d035af5/oklahoma-poison-center-sees-spike-in-teens-selfharming-with-pain-meds- |
Family and friends said a local firefighter is on the long road to recovery after he was involved in a serious car crash.
39-year-old Chris Easley was driving on State Highway 33 Friday morning near Penn when the crash happened.
According to an OHP report, Gayle Lanoy was driving westbound on Highway 33 turning onto Penn when a semi hit her and pushed her car into oncoming traffic and in front of Easley's car. He was pinned for 30 minutes before Guthrie firefighters were able to free him. Easley was flown to a local hospital in critical condition.
"This intersection has had a couple of fatalities just in the last 5 years," said Eric Harlow, Guthrie Fire Chief. "We had a bad one just a mile east of us just about 8 or nine years ago that involved three fatalities."
Lanoy was thrown from her vehicle and later died at the hospital. The driver of the truck had a minor injury to his foot and was cleared at the scene. The crash created a large scene, blocking off parts of the intersection for hours.
"This stretch of 33, for whatever reason, even though it's a wide-open roadway, we run a lot of serious crashes out here every year," said Harlow.
Easley has been a firefighter for a little over two years with the Woodcrest Fire Department and was their 2021 Firefighter of the Year. His family has posted on social media saying they're grateful he survived, but that he suffered major injuries.
Neighboring departments and those in the community have also shown their condolences for Easley.
Those with the Woodcrest Fire Department say they're in the process of starting a fundraiser for Easley and will post it on their Facebook page when ready. | 2022-02-16T06:15:31Z | www.news9.com | Woodcrest Firefighter On Road To Recovery After Crash News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620c35ada48920070e133c0a/woodcrest-firefighter-on-road-to-recovery-after-crash | https://www.news9.com/story/620c35ada48920070e133c0a/woodcrest-firefighter-on-road-to-recovery-after-crash |
Two families are mourning the loss of their loved ones who were killed on Valentine’s Day. Oklahoma City police said a man and woman were found shot to death inside a car near Northwest 10th and Portland Avenue.
Investigators identified the victims on Tuesday as 40-year-old Raymond Paddyaker and 30-year-old Kayla Yates. The woman’s brother said she was killed two days before her birthday.
“When I woke up yesterday, I didn’t know I would have to do this today,” said Nic Hamilton, victim’s brother.
Hamilton lives only blocks from where his sister was shot and killed. He said he even drove past the scene Monday morning along with several other people who had business in the area.
“It was quite scary,” said Christine Allen, witness. “I was afraid to get out of my care because I didn’t know what was going on.”
Neither did Hamilton, at least not until later in the day.
“I don’t know what you do to deserve that,” said Hamilton. “My sister definitely wasn’t involved in anything that would permit something like this to happen to her.”
Hamilton said Yates was one of 20 siblings and she had five children. He said she always had a smile and a joke.
“They took somebody’s mother away from them,” said Hamilton. “They took somebody’s child away.”
Her sudden death will be felt on a much larger scale.
“As Indigenous people, we’ve all been taught to lift each other up in times like this,” said Hamilton. “No matter if you knew the person or not.”
Investigators continue to piece together the events that led up to the shooting and why. Several people were detained from a mobile home park where the shooting happened, but police have not made any arrests.
“Just anybody who might know anything please come forward,” said Hamilton. “Tell us, help us, something.”
Hamilton said he knew the man his sister was with but did not know the nature of their relationship.
Anyone with information about the shooting can call the homicide tip line at (405) 297-1200. | 2022-02-16T06:16:04Z | www.news9.com | Families Mourn The Deaths Of 2 People Killed On Valentine's Day News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620c43d7a48920070e152be3/families-mourn-the-deaths-of-2-people-killed-on-valentines-day | https://www.news9.com/story/620c43d7a48920070e152be3/families-mourn-the-deaths-of-2-people-killed-on-valentines-day |
The controversial Education Savings Account “Voucher” Bill made it out of committee on Tuesday.
The bill passed after Senator Pro Temp Greg Treat and Floor Leader Greg McCortney voted yes on the measure. It passed by a vote of 8-7.
Senator Treat answered questions for the better part of two hours Tuesday in front of a packed chamber.
Lawmakers questioned financial accountability, student safety, and academic standards.
“There are going to be people who try to take advantage of money, regardless of how you do it, you just have to make sure laws are adequate to be able to catch those,” Treat said.
Senator Treat said he was willing to adjust the bill to get more support from Democrats and Republicans.
That might be an uphill battle as the bill receives pushback.
“We are already eager to keep chipping away at the foundation of the fabric of the educational services for our kids,” said Sen. Carri Hicks (D-OKC).
Lawmakers in support say it would give power to parents.
“Man, these parents have been ignored by school administrators and school boards,” said Sen. Joe Newhouse, (R-Tulsa).
By his estimates, Treat said the bill would open up about $145 million in state aid money to be immediately claimed by the 36,000 current private school students in the state.
But he says he’s willing to change this, and that it’s unlikely that all private schools would participate in the program.
“Giving parents control of the money for their children’s education is the essence of this bill,” said Treat.
Although the bill progressed in the Senate, top House Republican Charles McCall said last week that voucher bills, specifically Treat's Education Savings Accounts bill, were not a priority for his caucus and would not be heard in the House
Governor Kevin Stitt released a statement saying he was pleased with the vote.
The head of The State Department of Education Joy Hofmeister continues to express concern about voucher bills, saying they will “decimate funding for all children in public schools.” | 2022-02-16T06:16:10Z | www.news9.com | Controversial Education Savings Account 'Voucher' Bill Makes It Out Of Committee News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620c45066e7508072434924e/controversial-education-savings-account-voucher-bill-makes-it-out-of-committee | https://www.news9.com/story/620c45066e7508072434924e/controversial-education-savings-account-voucher-bill-makes-it-out-of-committee |
Every Sunday, at 11 a.m., Rick Swyden and his team of volunteers meet at an empty storefront near Hefner and May preparing Hotdogs for the Homeless.
At noon, the team makes their way to the Shell station at Reno & Classen to a crowd of about 100 people waiting for them.
This important weekly event almost didn’t come into existence.
“Some friends invited us to go down to San Antonio for New Year’s Eve, and at that time I really couldn’t afford to do that,” said Swyden.
That was nearly two decades ago, and soon after, Rick received an unexpected donation that helped him make the trip. He says the trip changed his life.
“It was there that I was walking to the River Center Mall on New Year’s Eve and saw this homeless man and I just stopped and talked to him,” said Swyden.
The conversation prompted Rick to feed him the closest thing available, a hotdog.
“When I came back home, I felt the need to do it again, and I bought 16 hotdogs. I had no idea what I was doing I didn’t know if we had 16 homeless, I just felt that I needed to do it,” said Swyden.
On a cold Sunday afternoon, Rick set out with his 16 hotdogs to feed the homeless.
“And I found out there was more than 16 homeless people for sure,” said Rick.
So, the next week Rick added an additional package of hotdogs,
“At this time, I really couldn’t afford to do this, even three packages. My wife had breast cancer, we had tremendous bills, I couldn’t afford to do what I was doing but I felt I needed to,” said Swyden.
Rick’s Neighbors soon noticed his actions and decided to help out.
“The following week when I got home from church, there were 88 hotdogs, 88 buns 88 bottles of water, 88 chips, my neighbors had all pitched in and bought what was on my porch,” said Swyden.
The neighbors returned to help package all the items and 19 years later Rick is still giving out hotdogs for the homeless.
“The hotdog is really an avenue to develop a relationship with the people that are living in our community, with our brothers and sisters,” said Aimee Majoue coordinator for Hotdogs for the Homeless.
“I treat the people out here like people. I don’t treat them differently because they’re homeless. I mean I joke with them, we make fun of each other, we laugh,” said Swyden.
In the 19 years the group has only missed about five Sundays all due to the weather, showing Rick’s commitment as well as his passion.
“You just treat someone like a human and it’s just amazing what happens from that,” said Swyden.
Anyone interested in volunteering or donating can reach them on the Facebook page or on their website. | 2022-02-16T06:16:16Z | www.news9.com | 'Hotdogs For The Homeless' Feeds People Facing Homelessness For Nearly 2 Decades News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620c46e4b2db2c07267d91e1/hotdogs-for-the-homeless-feeds-people-facing-homelessness-for-nearly-2-decades | https://www.news9.com/story/620c46e4b2db2c07267d91e1/hotdogs-for-the-homeless-feeds-people-facing-homelessness-for-nearly-2-decades |
Three medical teams from the U.S. Army and Air Force are more than one week into their month-long stint in two of the largest Oklahoma City hospital systems.
The program, a partnership between the Department of Defense and Federal Emergency Management Agency, stationed two teams made up of 40 Air Force personnel at Integris Health, and one team of 25 Army personnel at OU Health.
Haylee Smith RN, a nursing supervisor at Integris Health Baptist Medical Center, remembers seeing patients having to wait for beds in the intensive care unit in late January. The hospital was short-staffed, which forced medical staff like Smith to help more patients per day.
“We would have to float nurses from our unit that were full as well down to the emergency room to care for these patients,” she said. “Our workloads would be increased upstairs.”
Last week, military personnel has become immersed in the hospital’s workflow.
“We’ve been able to have a lot more appropriate and safe staffing ratios with them present,” Smith said of the Air Force teams at Integris Health. “It’s given (Integris staff) a minute to have some time to have with their family.”
Casey Woods, Chief Operating Officer of OU Medical Center, said the group of 14 Army nurses has helped fill staffing holes created partially by medical staffing becoming infected with COVID-19.
“Those 14 additional nurses, while it doesn’t seem like a lot, really does help provide a bit of just a breather, if you will,” Woods said.
Air Force Tech. Sgt. Yung Kim, a respiratory therapist is stationed at the Baptist Medical Center. He said their goal is to relieve Integris staff of some patients to improve their workload.
“The beds are full, and they are incorporating our team right along with their staff and their schedule,” Kim said. “I think the staff are really appreciative that we are here to give them some relief.”
The number of patients being admitted to hospitals with COVID-19 has decreased by nearly 50% since a spike in late January.
The three-day average of COVID-19 hospitalizations hit an all-time high of 2,077 on January 28, according to the Oklahoma State Department of Health. On Tuesday, the average was 1,058.
Still, hospital space remains limited. On Monday, Integris, OU Health, Mercy Health, and SSM Health St. Anthony reported only two available ICU beds available between the four systems.
The teams began the process of integrating into the systems on February 6 and 7, and will work inside the hospitals as late as March 10. Whether the teams will remain in Oklahoma City after that point has yet to be decided by federal agencies.
Staffing challenges inside hospitals will continue to be a challenge after the military assistance leaves Oklahoma City.
Smith said burnout among her coworkers has been a significant problem.
“With every surge, we have less and less staff because people can’t do what we’ve been having to do,” she said. “We want to take care of people to the best of our ability but not be spread so thin.” | 2022-02-16T12:39:33Z | www.news9.com | Military Teams Finish First Week Of Assisting Oklahoma City Hospitals News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620c798d7cf758072734db5d/military-teams-finish-first-week-of-assisting-oklahoma-city-hospitals- | https://www.news9.com/story/620c798d7cf758072734db5d/military-teams-finish-first-week-of-assisting-oklahoma-city-hospitals- |
Oklahoma Historical Society Hosts Living History Education Day
The Oklahoma Historical Society is hosting a Living History Education Day on March 3rd from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the historic Fort Towson.
People will get to see reenactments of the time period from 1824 through the 1870s and much more.
The event is free but reservations are required.
For more information or to register contact John Davis at jdavis@okhistory.org or (580)-873-2634.
For more information on the Oklahoma Historical Society, Click Here. | 2022-02-16T12:40:04Z | www.news9.com | Links Mentioned On Feb. 16, 2022 News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620cbf021ca6090724b621d1/links-mentioned-on-feb-16-2022 | https://www.news9.com/story/620cbf021ca6090724b621d1/links-mentioned-on-feb-16-2022 |
Oklahoma City police are looking for a suspect that they said tried to kidnap a woman last week.
The man was caught on camera at an apartment complex near Northwest 122nd and Pennsylvania Avenue. Police are warning residents in the area to always stay aware of their surroundings.
“It’s dark, it’s early in the morning,” said Sergeant Dillon Quirk, Oklahoma City Police Department.
Police released security video from the Indigo Apartments after a 23-year-old woman was nearly abducted. The victim was walking to her mailbox when she noticed a dark-colored SUV parked at an exit.
“She was leery and observant of the vehicle that was parked near the exit gate,” said Quirk.
What she did not know was the suspect left the SUV and was walking around in the area. He came back into the camera’s view and followed the victim out of the camera's sight.
The victim told officers she was wearing headphones and did not realize the man was behind her.
“At some point an unknown person came up from behind the victim,” said Quirk, “Placed their hand around the victim’s neck.”
The woman reported that the suspect told her she was going to get in his car. She refused and police said she fought off the would-be kidnapper.
“She was able to break away during a physical altercation,” said Quirk. “Run and call 911.”
The suspect ran back to his car and left the complex. Police think he could try again.
“We want to get people talking about it,” said Quirk. “We want to ultimately take this person off the street before the opportunity rises again for the suspect.”
Call Oklahoma City Crime Stoppers tip line at (405) 235-7300 if you know anything about the suspect in the video. | 2022-02-17T09:01:52Z | www.news9.com | OKC Police Looking For Suspect After An Attempted Kidnapping News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620d614f06902f072bebd56c/okc-police-looking-for-suspect-after-an-attempted-kidnapping | https://www.news9.com/story/620d614f06902f072bebd56c/okc-police-looking-for-suspect-after-an-attempted-kidnapping |
Rainey won a special election to Congress and was seated on December 12, 1870. Once elected, he championed the rights of the Freedmen, Chinese railroad workers, and Native Americans as well as all his constituents. He was a member of the House Indian Affairs Committee. Clyburn stressed that his own mother told him "the true Black history that you must read." Clyburn was joined by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Minority Whip Steve Scalise, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty of Ohio and Congressman Tom Rice of South Carolina to dedicate a room for Rainey, Room H-150 in the Capitol, where he frequently worked. A plaque was placed outside the room in his honor.
CBS News Joseph H. Rainey, who was born into slavery in 1832 and went on to become the nation's first Black congressman, was honored at the U.S. Capitol last week. | 2022-02-17T09:01:58Z | www.news9.com | First Black Congressman Honored At U.S. Capitol News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620d6218f6e54d7d97451727/first-black-congressman-honored-at-us-capitol | https://www.news9.com/story/620d6218f6e54d7d97451727/first-black-congressman-honored-at-us-capitol |
As the new president of Oklahoma City Community College, Dr. Mautra Jones said her goal is to provide students with the best opportunities and to inspire many others to know they are worthy of those opportunities.
Dr. Jones is a woman that wears many hats at home and in the workplace.
She's Oklahoma's 2021 Mom of the Year, a member of multiple organizations and now the 11th president of Oklahoma City Community College.
“The first thing that I plan to do when I get there is listen. I need to really delve deeper into the campus community and all aspects of the institution,” Dr. Jones said.
With her new title as president comes a few milestones in Oklahoma history. She is the first black woman to serve as president at the college or any higher learning educational institution in Oklahoma, other than a HBCU.
She said accolades are just the cherry on top.
“As someone who comes from very, very humble beginnings, I understand the realities of what people from humble beginnings face and a lot of the challenges and obstacles, and how people look at you differently. While I’m making history and I’m proud to make history I look at it as I'm being of service,” Dr. Jones said.
She said she's been able to combat those challenges with education.
She's never been one to shy away from a problem. She said she was always taught to be a leader.
“It started with me watching my grandmother and her willingness to serve our community. She served at the hospital, she served at church, the community had different initiatives at the community center and all sorts of things," she said.
Dr. Jones will take office March 1st. She hopes her new position will inspire other people of color.
“I hope that people can see themselves in me certainly the youth. I work so hard to serve and I just absolutely love and adore because they’re out future,” she said. | 2022-02-17T09:03:23Z | www.news9.com | OCCC's New President Is Making History News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620d87ba1d6591072bd57748/occcs-new-president-is-making-history | https://www.news9.com/story/620d87ba1d6591072bd57748/occcs-new-president-is-making-history |
Vivian Gray scored 35 points to reach 2,000 in her career, Taylah Thomas had 22 points and 13 rebounds and Texas Tech beat No. 15 Oklahoma 97-87 to snap a seven-game losing streak.
Texas Tech attempted 22 free throws in the fourth quarter, making 13 in the final minute. Gray and Tatum Veitenheimer each made 5 of 6 free throws in the fourth, and Lexy Hightower went 6 for 6.
The Lady Raiders finished 31 of 36 at the stripe. Hightower added 20 points for Texas Tech. Skylar Vann had 17 points for Oklahoma. | 2022-02-17T09:04:31Z | www.news9.com | Gray Scores 35, Texas Tech Women Top No. 15 Oklahoma 97-87 News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620dbd153766810726145056/gray-scores-35-texas-tech-women-top-no-15-oklahoma-9787 | https://www.news9.com/story/620dbd153766810726145056/gray-scores-35-texas-tech-women-top-no-15-oklahoma-9787 |
At the Fort Smith National Historic Site, not far from the 1838 historic barracks and jail building, and the reproduction of the 1886 gallows, there is a statue of legendary lawman Bass Reeves. He is one of the most respected and feared lawmen in Indian Territory.
"Bass really was an iconic figure in American history," Dave Kennedy said.
Bass Reeves was born into slavery, escaped during the Civil War, and eventually became a Deputy U.S. Marshal, out of Fort Smith, working for Hanging Judge Isaac Parker.
Reeves would cross the Arkansas River, on the trail of outlaws across more than 75,000 square miles in Indian and Oklahoma territories. Many of them were killers.
He'd travel hundreds of miles on horseback to bring them back to Judge Parkers' court.
Dave Kennedy is the Curator of the new U.S. Marshals Museum in Fort Smith, where Bass Reeves will be featured prominently when the museum opens toward the end of the year.
"He starts to become a success in the only part of the country where he could have become a success, as a black man working in law enforcement," Kennedy said.
Even without being able to read or write, Reeves' worked 32 years as a deputy marshal, when most Marshals out of Fort Smith served less than five.
His journeys into the territories would last for weeks.
The journey to find out more about Reeves took us to Chicago, where we meet author and historian Art Burton.
"Bass was so tough. If he spit on a brick it would break," Burton said.
Burton is an internationally known expert on Bass Reeves.
Although he lives just outside Chicago, Burton grew up visiting relatives in Oklahoma and became fascinated with Reeves.
"The greatest lawman in the wild west was from Oklahoma," said Burton.
Burton has researched African American figures on the western frontier, especially in Oklahoma and Indian territories, publishing several books.
He said Oklahoma has been overlooked when it comes to frontier history.
"The towns like Dodge City and those places, they were only wild for four or five years,” Burton said. “Oklahoma was wild for 30 to 40 years, even going up to the depression era."
The area was so wild that of the roughly 200 U.S. Marshals killed in the line of duty, 130 of them were killed in what would become Oklahoma.
"The majority of Deputy U.S. Marshals killed in the line of duty, were killed in a 50 mile radius of Muskogee," Burton said.
It's estimated Bass Reeves arrested as many as 3,000 people during his career, including his own son for murder, and his minister for selling illegal whiskey.
Reeves later became a Muskogee police officer to end his law enforcement career.
"Bass Reeves was pretty much a phenomenon,” Burton said. “He was six feet two and 190 pounds, and they said he could whip any two men with his bare hands. If you got into a gunfight with Bass Reeves, it was tantamount to committing suicide."
After statehood, few people knew much about Bass Reeves outside of the region.
"He was pretty much forgotten," said Burton.
Thanks to the work of Burton, by historians at places like the Fort Smith National historic area, and the U.S. Marshals Museum, that's changing.
Burton has optioned the rights to his book about Bass Reeves to Morgan Freeman.
Freeman has wanted to do a project about the legendary lawman for years.
That isn't the only international attention Reeves is now getting. In recent years, he's been the subject of a number of movies and television shows.
Some of the portrayals are more accurate than others, but the bottom line is more attention is being given to Bass Reeves - and more people are learning his story.
It’s a story of overcoming adversity. A remarkable true tale of service and justice.
"I want the world to know that Bass Reeves was the most prolific law enforcement officer our country has ever seen," Kennedy said.
"He's the greatest frontier hero in United States history," Burton said.
Yellowstone co-creator Taylor Sheridan and actor David Oyello are working with Viacom/CBS and MTV Entertainment for a limited series on Bass Reeves.
Although some historians disagree, Burton believes Bass Reeves was the inspiration of the Lone Ranger. It's all in his book 'Black Gun, Silver Star.' | 2022-02-17T09:04:43Z | www.news9.com | Legendary Lawman: The History Of Deputy U.S. Marshal Bass Reeves News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620dceb17c3922072a7ba86d/legendary-lawman:-the-history-of-deputy-us-marshal-bass-reeves | https://www.news9.com/story/620dceb17c3922072a7ba86d/legendary-lawman:-the-history-of-deputy-us-marshal-bass-reeves |
Firefighters are on the scene of a blaze that broke out at a roofing company near Southwest 15th and Agnew on Thursday morning.
Crews say it started as a smoke investigation before they discovered flames that appeared to have been burning for a while.
Currently, it is unclear how the fire broke out. | 2022-02-17T23:18:10Z | www.news9.com | Firefighters Battle Early Morning Fire In SW OKC News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620e2d3ffac0e30729330a29/firefighters-battle-early-morning-fire-in-sw-okc | https://www.news9.com/story/620e2d3ffac0e30729330a29/firefighters-battle-early-morning-fire-in-sw-okc |
Oklahoma To Execute Convicted Murderer Gilbert Postelle
Oklahoma carried out the execution of Gilbert Postelle Thursday morning.
His official time of death was 10:14 a.m.
Postelle was convicted of murdering four people in 2005, the Memorial Day murders of Amy Wright, 26; James Alderson, 57; Terry Smith, 56; and James Swindle Jr., 49.
According to police reports, Postelle shot more than "30 rounds" from an "AK-47 stile rifle" "striking all four victims." Prosecutors said Wright and Alderson were trying to run away when Postelle chased them and shot them in the back multiple times.
During Postelle's clemency hearings, attorneys for the state said, "In her final moments, Amy Wright was screaming and clawing the ground to escape from Gilbert Postelle. He heard her screams, saw her desperate attempt to escape from him. Rather than showing Amy mercy, he shot her in the back three times."
Postelle was sentenced to death in 2008 for two of the four murders — and to life in prison for the other two.
His supporters say his growing up in special education classes and having a schizophrenia diagnosis should take him off Death Row. They said he became addicted to methamphetamine at the age of 12.
Postelle will become the fourth and final inmate to be executed during this latest round of lethal injections.
News 9's Storme Jones will cover the execution from the Oklahoma State Penitentiary in McAlester. | 2022-02-17T23:18:35Z | www.news9.com | Oklahoma Executes Convicted Murderer Gilbert Postelle In McAlester News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620e3ae3fac0e3072934dc87/oklahoma-executes-convicted-murderer-gilbert-postelle-in-mcalester | https://www.news9.com/story/620e3ae3fac0e3072934dc87/oklahoma-executes-convicted-murderer-gilbert-postelle-in-mcalester |
1 Person Injured, Another In Custody Following Shooting In Norman
The Cleveland County Sheriff's Office and the Norman Police Department responded to a shooting at a mobile home late Thursday morning.
Authorities said both agencies arrived at the scene around 11:45 a.m. at a mobile home near Southeast 149th Street and South Anderson Road.
A man was reportedly shot in the chest. The victim was taken to a local hospital via ambulance in stable condition.
The female shooter was taken into custody. | 2022-02-17T23:19:50Z | www.news9.com | 1 Person Injured, Another In Custody Following Reported Shooting In Norman News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620e8f8a182e9401bbcdf0d6/1-person-injured-another-in-custody-following-reported-shooting-in-norman | https://www.news9.com/story/620e8f8a182e9401bbcdf0d6/1-person-injured-another-in-custody-following-reported-shooting-in-norman |
Cases aren't the only way officials are tracking COVID-19, but it's still important to have access to a testing site. One metro school district is ramping up testing for families of students and staff.
One of OKCPS’s Assistant Superintendents said this has been a conversation for a long time. A new grant is giving them the money to put it into action.
Oklahoma City Public Schools is now equipped with another resource for district families.
“We have had a large demand for testing, and we have been able to provide that to our students and our staff,” said Brad Herzer, the OKCPS Assistant Superintendent of HR and Safety Security.
Starting on February 21, household family members of students and staff can get a COVID-19 test free of charge.
“We wanted to be able to provide a resource to our community. We know that families are familiar with the schools and comfortable…we wanted to be able to provide a resource if we could to our families,” said Herzer.
The district will host clinics at Taft Stadium and Moses Miller Stadium every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“It is just another tool that we have available to use to help mitigate COVID-19 in our schools,” he said.
Another testing site will be at their Student Services building Wednesday through Friday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
“They are a rapid test as well so they will get the results within 15-20 minutes. We look for that to be another advantage too that they can know immediately whether they are positive or not,” said the Assistant Superintendent.
While they will accept walk-ins, the district encourages people to make an appointment.
“We do have sign ups that we ask people to do online, and they can access those through our websites. The limit is just the time it takes to administer the test; they are in 15-minute increments,” he said.
OKCPS has the grant through the end of the school year. They will continue to test as long as the demand is there. | 2022-02-18T06:23:25Z | www.news9.com | OKCPS To Start COVID-19 Testing For Staff, Student Household Family Members News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620ec2b14790b6071dac5f17/okcps-to-start-covid19-testing-for-staff-student-household-family-members | https://www.news9.com/story/620ec2b14790b6071dac5f17/okcps-to-start-covid19-testing-for-staff-student-household-family-members |
The owner of Florence's Restaurant near Northeast 23rd and Prospect is Oklahoma's first and only James Beard Foundation Award winner.
Florence Jones Kemp was among six recipients of the foundation's 2022 awards, which is similar to the Oscars for the food industry.
The restaurant opened 70 years ago and remains family-owned. Florence's is known for its comfort food. | 2022-02-18T21:30:19Z | www.news9.com | Florence's Restaurant Makes History As First James Beard Award Winner News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620fbf833608090726022635/florences-restaurant-makes-history-as-first-james-beard-award-winner | https://www.news9.com/story/620fbf833608090726022635/florences-restaurant-makes-history-as-first-james-beard-award-winner |
Starting Monday, families of OKCPS staff and students can come to Taft Stadium and Moses Miller Stadium for COVID-19 testing.
Both are open every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
OKCPS said it's been looking at ways to include families in the testing pool for some time and now funding through a new grant is making it possible.
Starting Monday, household family members of students and staff can get a COVID-19 test free-of-charge.
OKCPS has this grant through the end of the school year, so they will continue to test as long as people are using them.
They do accept walk-ins, but the district prefers people make an appointment.
The district also has a testing site at their Student Services building Wednesday-Friday from 1-4 p.m. | 2022-02-19T05:01:48Z | www.news9.com | OKCPS Expands COVID-19 Testing For Student And Staff Families News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620ffa75c760fa072f69c821/okcps-expands-covid19-testing-for-student-and-staff-families | https://www.news9.com/story/620ffa75c760fa072f69c821/okcps-expands-covid19-testing-for-student-and-staff-families |
A grieving father has a message after he lost his son to counterfeit oxycodone pills.
The man accused of selling them to him is now charged with his murder.
“Just a good all-American boy and his life has been taken from all of us,” said father, Kyle Stamps.
Cole Stamps was just 27 years old when he was found unresponsive on the floor of his apartment.
“I spoke to him that night and he sounded fine. Sounded like he had a few beers or whatever, he sounded okay, I said I’ll talk to you tomorrow,” said Stamps.
Kyle said he never imagined it would be their last conversation.
“It's just been devastating I never thought, no one ever thinks this is going to happen to you,” said Stamps.
According to court records, on September 14 after communicating via Snapchat, Cole Stamps met up with Joshua Toliver in a restaurant parking lot, and hours later at a gas station. There, police said Toliver sold Stamps pills laced with fentanyl.
“He just made a horrible, horrible mistake,” said Stamps.
And while his family said Stamps had struggled with drug abuse before, those closest to him believed he had turned things around.
“He was a great kid, great smile, very intelligent, handsome, good grades,” said Stamps.
Toliver is now charged with first degree murder. Police arrested him at an Edmond home.
“I didn't know anything about what fentanyl was. As a parent you go through that regret, could have, should have, would have, you know?” said Stamps.
And while Stamps knows he can't turn back time he encourages parents to ask questions.
“We just have to be more aware and educate our kids and grandchildren, just be more lovingly nosey,” said Stamps.
In a statement the attorney general said "…We will continue to go after those who try to profit from peddling these illicit drugs to Oklahomans." | 2022-02-19T05:02:06Z | www.news9.com | Father Mourns Loss Of Son To Fentanyl, Dealer Charged With Murder News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621001a7c760fa072f6ad4d6/father-mourns-loss-of-son-to-fentanyl-dealer-charged-with-murder | https://www.news9.com/story/621001a7c760fa072f6ad4d6/father-mourns-loss-of-son-to-fentanyl-dealer-charged-with-murder |
One person was killed in a single car crash near 15th and Bryant in Edmond at around 6:30 a.m. Friday.
The truck was headed south on Bryant and veered off the road. They hit a power pole, then plummeted about 40 feet into Spring Creek.
The driver of the vehicle has been identified as 43-year-old Chad E. Proffit.
A witness watched the crash happen and called 911.
A drop first responders had to climb down to get the the mangled truck.
"It's very cold down there. Fortunately for us there's not a lot of water down there," said Edmond Fire Deputy Chief, Chris Denton.
"The water is really not presenting us too much of an issue now. It's more of the elevation change."
Police said this was a single car crash and that the driver died at the scene.
Officials still don't know why the driver went off the road.
"There was no event, nothing was running out in front of him. There were no other vehicles."
Police said it's not clear if any drugs or alcohol played a role, but residents said cars are known to drive fast down Bryant," said Edmond PD, Public Information Officer Emily Ward.
"This intersection can be hectic at times. People tend to drive a little fast," explained Deanna McCuller, Manager at European Wax Center.
On top of the crash forcing lanes to close, Edmond electric had to cut the power because the truck hit a power pole.
Live lines dangled over the first responders at the scene. Once the lines were cut, about 650 people and businesses lost power.
"One of my employees had found one of the crews and asked what was going on," said McCuller.
Power was restored around 9 a.m. Friday morning. | 2022-02-19T05:02:12Z | www.news9.com | Edmond PD Trying To Find What Caused A Man To Drive Off The Road And Into A 40 Foot Embankment News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621004f1e23132070b7c20ed/edmond-pd-trying-to-find-what-caused-a-man-to-drive-off-the-road-and-into-a-40-foot-embankment- | https://www.news9.com/story/621004f1e23132070b7c20ed/edmond-pd-trying-to-find-what-caused-a-man-to-drive-off-the-road-and-into-a-40-foot-embankment- |
Residents of Surrey Hills said they've been experiencing consecutive home break-ins and car burglaries for the past year. However, it was only a few days ago when police caught a suspect.
Last weekend, resident Brad Armstrong was at a bachelor party, when his wife told him there was a burglar trying to get into her car. She sent him the surveillance video.
"It was very emotional. I was very worried about my wife being that far away from her," Armstrong said. "The fear I had, seeing someone trying to get in our stuff."
He rushed home and called the police. The man was then arrested, and the couple filed a police report.
Police said they've received multiple calls about similar occurrences, with the same suspect seen trying to get into other vehicles.
"When the officer arrived, we located the suspect wearing the same clothing that he had been shown in the video by one of the owners," Captain Valerie Little John of the Oklahoma City Police Department said. "The suspect also had drugs on him."
The Armstrongs believe there is more than one suspect involved in these burglaries.
"We do believe there are probably more suspects involved in some way." Captain Littlejohn said. "It's being investigated right now."
Shanna Armstrong said she is relieved a suspect was arrested and she advises other families to stay vigilant.
"We got cameras all over our house, that's how we were able to see he was coming through motion detectors," Shanna Armstrong said. "We are definitely not leaving our kids at home at night." | 2022-02-19T11:20:24Z | www.news9.com | Surrey Hills Sees String Of Home & Car Burglaries News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621038ef61a780072acfb00b/surrey-hills-sees-string-of-home--car-burglaries | https://www.news9.com/story/621038ef61a780072acfb00b/surrey-hills-sees-string-of-home--car-burglaries |
Oklahoma City Police released body cam footage and new details on an early morning shooting that left a man injured and neighbors stunned.
A neighbor, Royce Dunn, said he was home watching TV when he heard gunshots. He ran downstairs and saw that the man living right in front of his home was shot.
He called OKC police when he found his neighbor shot in the leg and the victim's girlfriend in tears.
“The lady was crying, so I went to go check and see if everybody was okay. He was ambulatory, but they did take him to the hospital in an ambulance, but he was able to walk. He was definitely in significant pain,” Dunn said.
The victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Police said when they spoke to several witnesses when they arrived on scene.
“There were three unknown persons that had left shortly after the gunshots,” Sgt. Dillon Quirk said.
“I didn't see them leave the house, but I saw them getting in the vehicle before they left. It was a four-wheel drive pick-up that had been jacked up off the ground,” Dunn said.
Police said the victim was not forthcoming with information. In their report, there was a ‘bullet size hole in the door.’
They also noticed 'the door frame and deadbolt were broken and appeared to have been forced open.'
Dunn said he's lived in the neighborhood for around five years, and this isn't common. He said people are usually shooting in the area when they're celebrating the holidays.
“There's a few of the neighbors that like to fire their pistols into the ground instead of using fireworks,” Dunn said.
No arrests have been made and no suspects have been identified. If you have any information, you're asked to call police. | 2022-02-19T11:20:24Z | www.news9.com | Oklahoma City Police Investigating Early Morning Shooting In SE OKC News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6210399595867a07285bfbbd/oklahoma-city-police-investigating-early-morning-shooting-in-se-okc | https://www.news9.com/story/6210399595867a07285bfbbd/oklahoma-city-police-investigating-early-morning-shooting-in-se-okc |
Island Breeze is an ensemble of musicians with Langston University’s band. They’re here on band scholarships and all from the Bahamas.
“We’re all about giving back to the community though. We’re just trying to give people a little taste of our culture,” said Darrien Rolle with the band ensemble.
“One day we were just playing around in the band room and our band director liked it, so he was like why not something with it do you know?” said Rolle.
When Band direct Mark Gordon came to Langston four years ago, he made it a point to recruit band students from the Bahamas
“We have roughly about 43 to 45 band students in the band from the Bahamas, we’re expecting about 80 in the band next year,” said Gordon.
The students are loving their experience at Langston. But when hurricane Dorian hit the Bahamas in 2019 it was a real challenge for them
“It was tough because we didn’t know if our families were okay. Islands like Abaco, Freeport, like those Islands were flooded. People lost their houses, lives, cars jobs everything,” said Rolle.
And soon after it became safe for them to get home to check on their families the pandemic hit and travel was shut down.
“This past December was the first time many of them have seen their parents in two years,” said Gordon.
The ensemble now plays at different events, raising money to send to their families back home.
“We don’t even ask for nothing, we just volunteer sometimes. But it’s really just us doing what we need to do to show our appreciation,” said Rolle.
The ensemble we be at Wildwood Christian Church in Oklahoma City, this Sunday for their Black history program at 10 a.m.
“It’s something different, it’s something good for our community and it’s something good for them as well. The exposure is really what we’re looking to do,” said Pastor Dwayne Rodgers, with Wildwood Christian Church.
“Oklahoma is far from the Bahamas and to know that we are so far from home and we’re still trying to give back to people in need at home it’s great,” said Rolle.
The group is made up of about 45 students that rotate for their engagements. All the students carry a 3.3 grade point average or better.
The ensemble is available for all types of events and functions they can be contacted thru Langston University’s band office. | 2022-02-19T11:20:25Z | www.news9.com | Langston University Brass Ensemble Giving Support To Their Families In The Bahamas News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/62103a797cb5cc070ecec0b3/langston-university-brass-ensemble-giving-support-to-their-families-in-the-bahamas- | https://www.news9.com/story/62103a797cb5cc070ecec0b3/langston-university-brass-ensemble-giving-support-to-their-families-in-the-bahamas- |
Senior Oklahoma guard Elijah Harkless will miss the remainder of the season with an undisclosed injury.
Harkless has been playing his best basketball of the year of late, scoring 14 points per game in his last 5 and averaging 3 steals per game over his last 5.
The Sooners take on the Iowa State Cyclones Saturday afternoon in Ames. | 2022-02-19T11:20:26Z | www.news9.com | OU's Harkless Out For Season With Undisclosed Injury News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/62103cec7cb5cc070ecf0d5d/ous-harkless-out-for-season-with-undisclosed-injury | https://www.news9.com/story/62103cec7cb5cc070ecf0d5d/ous-harkless-out-for-season-with-undisclosed-injury |
It's not a surprise since the foundation of the Unwind Cafe is love, family and food.
"The journey start with love," owner Kefren Arjona said. "Me and my wife, my partner, our oldest son is moving over here from Michigan."
The OKC community drew the owners Kefren and his wife Maria in, and they were inspired to open the cafe.
Their menu features food that's a fusion of European and Caribbean cultures.
"We have a moral obligation to be part of this community and offer back to this community," Kefren Arjona said.
During the month of February, they are trying to do just that all with a little cake. The "love cake” is a dish created by chef Mikel Pichs. The cakes come in different sizes and spell out “l-o-v-e.”
"How do I make it? With my hands, passion, and love," Pichs said.
There are different flavors and colors, but they all have the same meaning.
A portion of the café’s proceeds from the cakes this month will go towards the Curbside Chronicle employment program through the Homeless Alliance.
"Hopefully, whatever little more we can collect, it will be something that will provide a meal, will provide a bed, can help a mother and a child, will help people, you know, get out of the street," Kefren Arjona said.
The struggle is something Kefren Arjona experienced when he came to the U.S. from Cuba.
"When I came here to this country, I was just a teenager," Kefren Arjona said. "I did not fit into my family. A different kind of a culture. I guess I saw myself (for) the first time (as) homeless."
Arjona didn't give up easily. He found a way to graduate from college and started multiple successful careers.
Now, he hopes his message and even food will help others find hope. | 2022-02-20T00:43:58Z | www.news9.com | OKC Metro Cafe Gives Back To Those Experiencing Homelessness News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6210f3dfc9d14a072472b523/okc-metro-cafe-gives-back-to-those-experiencing-homelessness | https://www.news9.com/story/6210f3dfc9d14a072472b523/okc-metro-cafe-gives-back-to-those-experiencing-homelessness |
Suspect Shot In Early Morning Home Burglary
Oklahoma City police said one person was shot after they were caught trying to break into someone's home.
The shooting happened near Southwest 15th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue.
Police said the homeowner shot the suspect in the arm when they entered the house.
The suspect was taken into custody and taken to the hospital. | 2022-02-20T00:44:17Z | www.news9.com | OCPD: Southwest OKC Homeowner Shot Burglary Suspect News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/62111116a42522017709130d/ocpd:-southwest-okc-homeowner-shot-burglary-suspect | https://www.news9.com/story/62111116a42522017709130d/ocpd:-southwest-okc-homeowner-shot-burglary-suspect |
Local Soul Food Restaurant Wins James Beard Award
The James Beard Foundation recognizes six restaurants across the country for their excellence in food and culture every year. This year, a restaurant in Northeast Oklahoma City will be the first restaurant in Oklahoma to receive the honor.
Florence Restaurant has been serving soul food to Oklahomans for over 70 years.
Florence and Victoria Kemp are co-owners of Florence's restaurant. Victoria said a phone call turned her busy day into a day of celebration when the James Beard Foundation called the restaurant telling Victoria Florence's Restaurant is one of six recipients of the foundation's 2022 awards.
“I had no idea that I would ever get this kind of award. I'll probably need someone to pinch me tonight,” Florence said.
Florence took the lessons she learned from her mother growing up in Boley and opened her restaurant in 1952.
“I decided that I needed a job and I didn't like working for other people,” Florence said.
Florence originally opened on NE 4th Street in the heart of what once was OKC's bustling Black community and in 1969 moved to NE23rd.
“The urban renewal kicked us out from down there,” Florence said.
“They planned that the OU Medical Center would be where it is and that Bricktown would be where it is and to do that they had to start working their plan in the 60s,” Victoria said.
The Kemp girls said Northeast OKC has changed so much over the years, but the loyalty of their customers has stayed the same.
“I have some come every day,” Florence said.
“People always say that it reminds them of home. It reminds them of their grandmother's food because every single thing we make is fresh just like my grandparents made on the farm,” Victoria said.
The two will fly to Chicago to accept the award in June. | 2022-02-20T07:29:56Z | www.news9.com | Florence's Restaurant Makes History As First James Beard Award Winner in Oklahoma News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/620fbf833608090726022635/florences-restaurant-makes-history-as-first-james-beard-award-winner-in-oklahoma | https://www.news9.com/story/620fbf833608090726022635/florences-restaurant-makes-history-as-first-james-beard-award-winner-in-oklahoma |
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol said a Perry woman died in a collision Sunday morning.
The collision happened just after 3 a.m. along U.S. Highway 177 near West Glencoe Road in Stillwater.
Authorities said two vehicles were involved in the collision, but troopers are still investigating what led to the crash.
OHP identified the woman as 34-year-old Mary Ann Leeper. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the other vehicle was transported to OU Medical Center in good condition.
The cause of the collision also remains under investigation. | 2022-02-21T01:15:46Z | www.news9.com | OHP: Perry Woman Dies In Sunday Morning Collision News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621278ae84072d072d512aed/ohp:-perry-woman-dies-in-sunday-morning-collision | https://www.news9.com/story/621278ae84072d072d512aed/ohp:-perry-woman-dies-in-sunday-morning-collision |
OBI To Hold President's Day Blood Drives
The Oklahoma Blood Institute will host several blood drives Monday with free goodies to give away.
The blood drives will take place from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday at Marco's Pizza's locations around the metro.
All donors will get a free medium pizza plus a T-shirt and free tickets to the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.
You can book an appointment on OBI's website. | 2022-02-21T01:16:11Z | www.news9.com | OBI To Host Several President's Day Blood Drives News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6212b0111b3a4107251d2000/obi-to-host-several-presidents-day-blood-drives | https://www.news9.com/story/6212b0111b3a4107251d2000/obi-to-host-several-presidents-day-blood-drives |
JUNEAU, Alaska -
Associated Press A gemstone, billed as one of the largest gem-quality opals in existence, was sold for $143,750 at auction in Alaska on Sunday. The opal, dubbed the “Americus Australis,” weighs more than 11,800 carats, according to the auction house Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals. It also has a long history. | 2022-02-21T07:20:06Z | www.news9.com | Huge Opal Sells For Nearly $144,000 At Alaska Auction News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6212b187a4fd430723d9b5c7/huge-opal-sells-for-nearly-144000-at-alaska-auction | https://www.news9.com/story/6212b187a4fd430723d9b5c7/huge-opal-sells-for-nearly-144000-at-alaska-auction |
By: Hunter McKee, News 9
1-Year-Old In Critical Condition After Dog Attack In Oklahoma County
A baby boy is fighting for his life after his grandmother said he was viciously attacked by a neighbor's dog in Spencer.
Family of 1-year-old J.J. Rodriquez said he was playing outside Sunday afternoon with his siblings when he was attacked by a dog.
"When officers arrived, they found the child back behind the house back there," said Aaron Brilbeck, with Oklahoma County Sheriff's Offcie. "Had been mauled by a Pitbull type dog."
The 1-year-old boy was transported to OU Childrens Hospital in Oklahoma City and is listed in critical condition. Rodriquez's grandmother tells News 9 something like this should have never happened.
"I talked to my son-in-law, and he said he's never going to be the same again," said Delfina Wright. "What does that tell you."
We're told by those on scene the dog was taken away and did not have his rabies shots. Investigators say the family who owns the dog had received citations before for dogs running loose.
"Neighbors have complained a lot about the dogs running loose," said Brilbeck. "They've got up to five Pitbull's in the house and been very, very dangerous."
A Spencer City Councilwoman says they’ve also received several complaints of loose dogs on this street before.
One neighbor says she was home at the time and heard a commotion When they realized the child was being attacked, her boyfriend stepped in to try and help.
"At that point, we were looking over and the baby was in the dads' arms and he wasn't breathing," said Shiloh Mummey.
"We're scared, we're praying," said Wright. "We're hopeful, we need as much prayers out there."
Investigators say they've received several different stories from those who live on that street and are still investigating the incident.
The person who owns the dog reached out to us and says their prayers are with the child and that their dog has never hurt someone before. | 2022-02-21T07:20:31Z | www.news9.com | Child In Hospital After Being Attacked By Dog, Investigators Say News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6212cf8cc3f9fe07266568d0/child-in-hospital-after-being-attacked-by-dog-investigators-say | https://www.news9.com/story/6212cf8cc3f9fe07266568d0/child-in-hospital-after-being-attacked-by-dog-investigators-say |
Police in Carter County are asking for the public's help after one of their officers was shot early Sunday morning.
Wilson Police said the officer, Tyler Skinner, was on patrol near a school when a man in dark clothing approached him, pulled out a gun and fired.
Police said the ballistic vest saved that officer's life. The city is offering a $5,000 reward for the suspect's arrest and conviction. | 2022-02-21T07:20:49Z | www.news9.com | Police Offering Reward For Arrest, Conviction Of Suspect That Shot Officer News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6212ea8b8a6f230727a5df02/police-offering-reward-for-arrest-conviction-of-suspect-that-shot-officer | https://www.news9.com/story/6212ea8b8a6f230727a5df02/police-offering-reward-for-arrest-conviction-of-suspect-that-shot-officer |
MOORE, Oklahoma -
Moore Police Department is bringing in new methods to help with how they respond to calls involving people with special needs.
“Individuals with special needs or developmental disabilities often times are hyperreactive or responsive to different sensory,” Lt. Kyle Johnson said.
The Autism Foundation of Oklahoma donated two sensory kits to Moore PD. Police said with these kits it will help them better communicate with someone they may come in contact with in the field.
“There have been many times where you know something like this would've come in handy. We respond to calls where individuals are in crisis very often,” Lt. Johnson said.
Inside the kits are tools officers can use a de-escalation technique. Many of the items inside cater to a person who have specific sensory needs like hearing, visual and touch.
“Let's say noise is a concern for them we have the ability to provide them with headphones where we can just decrease that,” Lt. Johnson said.
“If they're nonverbal they can use this as a method to communicate to tell us to respond to how they're feeling or what it is that they're needing,” Lt. Johnson said.
Based on the call they're responding to officers will have the option to pick up one of the kits on their way out their door. This is also an improvement to a program Moore PD within the past year called Special Needs Alert and Identification Program also known as S.A.I.D.
“Our citizens, if they have an individual in their household with special needs they can actually sign up on that program. It gives us identifying information for the individual that resides at the residence that is special needs. It provides special needs what their triggers are so that we have that essential information before we even respond to the house,” Lt. Johnson said.
For more information on how to sign up for the S.A.I.D. program you can CLICK HERE. | 2022-02-21T20:17:06Z | www.news9.com | Autism Foundation Donates Sensory Kits To Moore Police Department News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6213143c5058750760a52b92/autism-foundation-donates-sensory-kits-to-moore-police-department | https://www.news9.com/story/6213143c5058750760a52b92/autism-foundation-donates-sensory-kits-to-moore-police-department |
Emergency crews are responding to a grass fire near I-40 and MacArthur in western Oklahoma City Monday afternoon.
According to the Oklahoma City Fire Department, 10 vehicles caught flames due to the grass fire. All of the vehicles were employee's cars.
The Oklahoma City Fire Department said that 13 people, all employees, on the scene were checked for smoke inhalation and three were taken to a local hospital.
No customers were injured by the smoke.
Traffic in the area is slow at this time due to the fire. The Chick-Fil-A will be closed. | 2022-02-21T20:20:54Z | www.news9.com | Multiple Vehicles Catch Fire Due To Grass Fire At West OKC Chick-Fil-A News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6213e3fc2d42480729308b1c/multiple-vehicles-catch-fire-due-to-grass-fire-in-west-okc | https://www.news9.com/story/6213e3fc2d42480729308b1c/multiple-vehicles-catch-fire-due-to-grass-fire-in-west-okc |
Fire Destroys 10 Cars At West OKC Chick-Fil-A
Ten vehicles caught fire on the west side of Oklahoma City as a wildfire broached the parking lot of a local restaurant Monday afternoon, authorities said.
The Chick-Fil-A near Interstate 40 and MacArthur Boulevard is closed as of 2 p.m., according to authorities.
A spokesperson for the Oklahoma City Fire Department told News 9 that 13 Chick-Fil-A employees were checked out for smoke inhalation, three taken to a nearby hospital. All the vehicles that caught fire belonged to Chick-Fil-A employees.
Fire officials said this started as a grass fire that went into the restaurant parking lot, driven by gusty winds. | 2022-02-22T02:47:46Z | www.news9.com | Grass Fire Engulfs Vehicles In West Oklahoma City Chick-Fil-A Parking Lot News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6213e3fc2d42480729308b1c/grass-fire-engulfs-vehicles-in-west-oklahoma-city-chickfila-parking-lot | https://www.news9.com/story/6213e3fc2d42480729308b1c/grass-fire-engulfs-vehicles-in-west-oklahoma-city-chickfila-parking-lot |
A 1-year-old child is fighting for his life after being mauled by a dog in Spencer.
J.J. Rodriguez's family tells News 9 that they're trying to stay positive right now, but they know he has a long road in front of him.
Family of Rodriguez tell me he was outside Sunday afternoon when he was attacked by the dog. His dad and others rushed over to try and help, as the attack was witnessed by several of Rodriguez's siblings.
"These children are going to need a lot of help also, it's not just J.J. it's affecting all of these kids," said Delfina Wright, his grandmother. "There's a lot of babies that are involved in this."
Rodriguez was taken to OU Children's with critical injuries. The family says he suffered severe injuries to his face and other parts of his body.
"Everything can be healed," said Wright. "It's going to take a long time, they said J.J.s going to be here in the hospital weeks, possibly months."
We're told the dog was taken away and did not have his rabies shots. Investigators with the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office said the dog owners had been previously cited for loose animals.
However, News 9 spoke to the owner of the dog Sunday, and they said their dog has never attacked anyone before and their condolences are with Rodriguez and the family.
"Our investigators are going to be trying to figure out exactly what happened," said Aaron Brilbeck, with the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office. "We're getting at least two different stories as far as how the dog was able to attack the child we're going to try and figure out where the truth is."
Wright also said they started a Go-Fund-Me page for him cover medical bills. | 2022-02-22T02:48:47Z | www.news9.com | Child Recovering After Being Mauled By A Dog In Spencer News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/62141cc67b714f073359bdef/child-recovering-after-being-mauled-by-a-dog-in-spencer | https://www.news9.com/story/62141cc67b714f073359bdef/child-recovering-after-being-mauled-by-a-dog-in-spencer |
Most of us have heard of Catholic Charities and some of the work that they do. But this organization does so much more for Oklahomans the many of us don’t hear about.
“So, we meet people where they are and we try to help them overcome those situations in life,” said Carli Akard, director of communications with Catholic Charities.
Since 1912 Catholic Charities has been giving hope to Oklahomans when they most need it.
“Everything from housing assistance, home assistance. Maybe someone is having trouble paying their electric bill,” said Arkard.
They also assist in disaster relief, all types of counseling as well as providing homeless services.
“To be able to take a shower at the beginning of the day is something a lot of people take for granted, but when you’re homeless and perhaps living in your car,” said Arkard.
Deborah Hall fell on hard times and had been sleeping in her car for eight months. Catholic Charities changed everything for her.
“They paid my rent, they paid my deposit, I even had an old power bill from the apartment in OKC they paid that,” said Hall.
“Deborah really had the face of somebody that was determined to get thru her circumstances. And not only did she do that in about eight- or nine-months’ time, through our services and programs, she helped other people,” said Arkard.
Hall owns two cars, so while she slept in one, she allowed a friend to sleep and utilize the other. She was also battling health challenges and continued working a full-time job.
She not only appreciated the help offered by Catholic Charities, but also the way the help was offered.
“They all were nonjudgmental they would listen to you oh my case manager, she was gold,” said Hall.
Hall now has her own apartment and is looking forward to a bright future.
“I saw god providing for my hand up thru catholic charities,” said Hall.
The Charity in now planning their big Green Tie Gala on March 5 at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.
“It’s a fund-raising event, so we have food, and we have drinks, we have a live and silent auction we’ll have live music from Justin Echols, News 9’s Amanda Taylor is going to be hosting it,” said Arkard.
The money raised will go to help more women like Deborah.
“I am so excited about my future and catholic charities really helped me,” said Hall.
For those interested in attending the Green Tie Gala or want to support or volunteer, visit their website, https://www.catholiccharitiesok.org | 2022-02-22T16:30:53Z | www.news9.com | Catholic Charities Giving Hope To Oklahoma Families News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/62142cc96ddf0d072b9a80f5/catholic-charities-giving-hope-to-oklahoma-families- | https://www.news9.com/story/62142cc96ddf0d072b9a80f5/catholic-charities-giving-hope-to-oklahoma-families- |
A harrowing scene Monday afternoon along I-40 as a grass fire consumed ten cars in a Chick-Fil-A parking lot. The inferno also sent three people to the hospital.
Workers nearby told News 9 the smoke was so bad they thought their building was burning.
“We all walked outside and just saw all the cars on fire,” said Cody Wilson, who works at Aspen Dental and witnessed the fire.
“The Chick-Fil-A is engulfed in thick smoke,” said Jim Gardner in Bob Mills Sky News 9 from above the scene.
Witnesses from surrounding businesses said they ran outside and saw a line of cars on fire.
“One by one so every five minutes or so when it was going on you could hear a big boom…hearing the tires and the hissing of the fire that was really the biggest thing that we heard,” said Wilson.
“I was working drive-thru and I smelt smoke and then I looked Infront of me out the window and there was a fire,” said Gabby Hanks, who works at Panera Bread next door.
“We’re not exactly sure what started it but with this enormous Southwind we have today it didn’t take long for this fire to grow into the chick fil a parking lot,” said Captain Scott Douglas, with the Oklahoma City Fire Department.
He said wind and dry conditions are to blame for the rapid spread of the fire that broke out just before 1 p.m.
“I just got everybody’s car and moved them to the front. I know the wind was blowing this way, so I didn’t want anything to cause any issues with our cars and just start a trickle effect,” said Wilson.
“I just remember seeing my car out there and I needed to move my car out of the way because there is a lot of smoke and you call tell the grass is burning,” said Paola Deleon, who also works at Panera Bread and witnessed the fire.
An employee at Twin Peaks also captured it all on video across the parking lot.
“Once the fire occurred, we had a prompt evacuation of not only the employees but the customers,” said Douglas.
OKCFD treated 13 employees for smoke inhalation, three of them were taken to a local hospital.
“Everybody was concerned, we saw it all from the front. You couldn’t even see the Chick-Fil-A from the back door with all of the smoke,” said Wilson.
While Chick-Fil-A did close, workers said they were able to clean out the smell of smoke and keep their doors open. | 2022-02-22T16:31:18Z | www.news9.com | Witnesses Recount Moment Grass Fire Engulfs Vehicles In Chick-Fil-A Parking Lot News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621466f3f2ace90729aa0eda/witnesses-recount-moment-grass-fire-engulfs-vehicles-in-chickfila-parking-lot- | https://www.news9.com/story/621466f3f2ace90729aa0eda/witnesses-recount-moment-grass-fire-engulfs-vehicles-in-chickfila-parking-lot- |
Fire Crews Respond To House Fire In SW OKC
Firefighters responded to a vacant house fire in southwest Oklahoma City Tuesday morning.
The fire was reported near Southwest Grand Boulevard and Blackwelder.
According to fire crews on the scene, it was a boarded up structure.
At this time, it is unknown what caused the fire to start. | 2022-02-22T23:22:31Z | www.news9.com | Fire Crews Respond To Vacant House Fire In SW OKC News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6214e4724e80830728ccd943/fire-crews-respond-to-vacant-house-fire-in-sw-okc | https://www.news9.com/story/6214e4724e80830728ccd943/fire-crews-respond-to-vacant-house-fire-in-sw-okc |
UPDATED (1:30 p.m. on Feb. 22)
According to OG&E, thousands experienced power outages Tuesday morning across multiple counties in Oklahoma.
At 8:30 a.m., around 3,136 people dealt with power outages.
The majority of outages were seen in Sequoyah County, with around 2,476 power outages, while Oklahoma County saw around 543 outages.
As of 9:30 a.m., the number of total outages went down to 628, with Oklahoma County seeing 534 customers without power.
Around 1:30 p.m., the total number of outages fell to 30.
You can view a live look at OG&E's outage map here.
News 9 According to OG&E, thousands are experiencing power outages Tuesday morning across multiple counties in Oklahoma. | 2022-02-22T23:22:56Z | www.news9.com | Power Outages Experienced Across Multiple Oklahoma Counties News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6214f470aaeef216c18f4c5f/power-outages-experienced-across-multiple-oklahoma-counties | https://www.news9.com/story/6214f470aaeef216c18f4c5f/power-outages-experienced-across-multiple-oklahoma-counties |
A husband-and-wife party-planning team is conquering the industry in Oklahoma City, but they say they could never do it alone.
"We cater, design, we are professional photographers, video service," said Everything Creative owner Stephen Nelson.
And the list continues for this one-stop-shop helping you with all your party needs.
Stephen Nelson is one half of Everything Creative, who runs the business with his wife.
"We have been married together for 23 years and right side-by-side as business partners," said Nelson.
While they work as a family, being a black-owned business has brought difficulties.
"To get into certain doors and opportunities and to meet the right people," said Nelson.
But they have met influential people on their journey through the metro, such as Miss Joanne Davis from the Black Chamber, who has helped solidify their business endeavors.
"You can grow fast, but it's better to go slow. When you move slow, you can learn the details of the things you just don't know," said Nelson. | 2022-02-22T23:23:02Z | www.news9.com | 'Everything Creative' Party Planning Business Finds Success In Oklahoma City News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6215018835d0b20717bcea51/everything-creative-party-planning-business-finds-success-in-oklahoma-city | https://www.news9.com/story/6215018835d0b20717bcea51/everything-creative-party-planning-business-finds-success-in-oklahoma-city |
Family Searching For Answers In 34-Year-Old Cold Case
The unsolved murder case of a Comanche woman is still ongoing.
Mary Morgan Pewitt was just 25-years-old when someone stabbed her more than 30 times.
Her two young daughters made the gruesome discovery, finding their mom dead in their home in June 1988.
She'd be 59 years old today, and to celebrate their mother's birthday, the daughters are sending out reminders that the killer has never been brought to justice.
The cold case appears to be heating up.
In recent months, the OSBI asked for help identifying two women they'd like to speak with.
Both women lived in the Duncan area in the 1980's and are not suspects in the case.
If you have information about this case, the OSBI is also offering a $10,000 reward.
News 9 The unsolved murder case of a Comanche woman is still ongoing. | 2022-02-22T23:23:57Z | www.news9.com | Family Searching For Answers In 34-Year-Old Cold Case News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/62152e0ff082f7245d00c12d/family-searching-for-answers-in-34yearold-cold-case | https://www.news9.com/story/62152e0ff082f7245d00c12d/family-searching-for-answers-in-34yearold-cold-case |
For decades a thriving Black community called downtown Oklahoma City home. A special place frequented by artists and jazz legends - even a young Martin Luther King Jr. visited. Wednesday at 10:00, learn the history of this important place and find out what brought its glory days to an end. | 2022-02-22T23:24:59Z | www.news9.com | Wednesday At 10: Deep Roots Of Deep Deuce News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/62154bd83527600efb16ddd0/wednesday-at-10:-deep-roots-of-deep-deuce | https://www.news9.com/story/62154bd83527600efb16ddd0/wednesday-at-10:-deep-roots-of-deep-deuce |
Multiple homes connected to illegal grow operations across the state were raided Tuesday morning.
It's the culmination of a yearlong OBN investigation. Twelve search warrants were executed at nine farms and three houses at the same time.
One person who lives near one of the homes said she still cannot believe a home on her block is possibly part of the nationwide syndicate.
"It just really shocks me because our neighborhood, we live across the street from a middle school and elementary school, the kids walk home from school," said Edmond resident Kristen Debock.
The Edmond home is one of the twelve properties at the center of the biggest illegal marijuana drug bust in state history. More than 300 law enforcement officers from a number of agencies searched and seized the illegal grows at 8 a.m. Tuesday morning.
"This was a massive operation. Probably nothing like this has been done before," said OBN's Director, Donnie Anderson. He added, "We're still collecting evidence as we talk but, one of the estimates was over $500 million."
Officers served thirteen arrest warrants as well. As of noon Tuesday, five had been arrested. OBN said one of the arrests was someone well known to law enforcement across the country.
"One of the females that was arrested was one of our large targets. She was also a very large broker in the US for moving marijuana across the US and out of the country," said Anderson.
More than 100,000 plants and 2,000 pounds of processed pot were seized. Police said the homes were used to either stash money or product.
Debock said she's glad she keeps an extra close eye on her kids, even when they're just on their block.
"I've always felt like, oh I'm just this helicopter mom like, I'm just so afraid of them playing outside on their own and maybe I'm too much and shouldn't be like that; but now I'm like ok. Maybe my gut feeling was right," she explained.
OMMA said eight of the nine grow operations were in good standing with the organization. | 2022-02-22T23:25:36Z | www.news9.com | Oklahoma Law Enforcement Involved In Large Scale Drug Bust At Locations Across Oklahoma News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6215620a9d05650f3df65d07/oklahoma-law-enforcement-involved-in-large-scale-drug-bust-at-locations-across-oklahoma- | https://www.news9.com/story/6215620a9d05650f3df65d07/oklahoma-law-enforcement-involved-in-large-scale-drug-bust-at-locations-across-oklahoma- |
A group of Republican lawmakers announced Tuesday a Houston law firm is investigating the murder conviction of death row inmate Richard Glossip.
Rep. Kevin McDugle, R – Broken Arrow, said the firm Reed Smith is dedicating 20 attorneys to the investigation into Glossip’s murder conviction. The attorneys will work pro bono, or for no pay.
Representatives Justin Humphrey, Gary Mize, and Senator Blake Stephens joined McDugle at a press conference on Tuesday to announce the third-party investigation.
McDugle said the group will honor Glossip’s death penalty conviction should the investigation find that he was behind the death of Van Treece.
“We don’t want to put an innocent person to death,” McDugle said.
Attorney Stan Perry of the Reed Smith firm said they hope to
“We are not on anyone’s side. We are not counsel to Mr. Glossip,” said Attorney Stan Perry of the Houston law firm Reed Smith.
Perry said the group plans to request assistance from the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office, which prosecuted the case against Glossip, to review evidence from the case.
“I’m going to make a public request to (District Attorney David) Prater,” McDugle said. “Please work with this 3rd party law firm. Please turn over what you can to them—what they request.”
Prater did not respond to a request for comment in time for publication Tuesday.
Glossip has been on death row for 24 years for ordering the 1997 murder of Barry Van Treese. Another man, Justin Sneed, admitted to killing Van Treese after Glossip hired him for the murder. Sneed testified against Glossip and is now serving a life sentence in prison.
Glossip’s murder conviction has garnered national attention and is the subject of a documentary called ‘The Innocent Man.’
Related: Dr. Phil: ‘Absolutely Convinced’ Death Row Inmate Richard Glossip Is Innocent
A spokesperson for Oklahoma Attorney General John O’Connor defended Glossip’s conviction on Tuesday.
“Glossip has had 24 years of appeals,” said Rachel Roberts, Director of Communications for the Attorney General’s Office. “It is time for justice to be served for Mr. Van Treese’s family and the people of Oklahoma.” | 2022-02-23T13:50:11Z | www.news9.com | Oklahoma Lawmakers Announce Third-Party Investigation Into Conviction Of Death Row Inmate News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/62156626fb567d0f23642104/oklahoma-lawmakers-announce-thirdparty-investigation-into-conviction-of-death-row-inmate | https://www.news9.com/story/62156626fb567d0f23642104/oklahoma-lawmakers-announce-thirdparty-investigation-into-conviction-of-death-row-inmate |
A three-time convicted car thief was arrested over the weekend and accused of committing the same crime. Oklahoma City police arrested Damon Richmond, 32, on Saturday after he crashed into two cars during a pursuit on the northwest side of the city.
He caused extensive damage after he slammed into the car while driving a reported stolen car from the area of Northwest 10th Street and May Avenue.
“I was thankful and then I was mad,” said Patricia Mills-Harbert, crash victim. “Yeah, when I found out what it was all about.”
Patricia Mills-Harbert held back tears as she remembered her drive home. She was stopped at a light near northwest 50th and Grand Boulevard when she described seeing a black car speeding down the street. She thought she had enough time to make it through when the light turned green.
“It’s amazing how fast things go through your mind when you see something and you’re trying to figure out what to do to get out of that situation,” said Mills-Harbert.
She recalled seeing two police cars following Richmond but did not hear sirens. “I would not have gone if I heard sirens,” said Mills-Harbert. “I would have sat at that green light,”
Mills-Harbert was sure the suspect would have crashed into her head-on had she not turned her car. The crash totaled her car, and she is unable to walk due to a broken knee.
The avid quilter said her business is on hold until she can walk again. “I’ll get back,” said Mills-Harbert. “It’s just going to put me behind because I have orders.”
As for Richmond, if he is charged this incident will make his fourth car theft and second pursuit on his record.
“To me if they’re going to jeopardize that many people on the street, they don’t care about anything but themselves,” said Mills-Harbert.
Police said Richmond had a warrant for domestic assault and battery and three city bench warrants. | 2022-02-23T13:50:35Z | www.news9.com | Woman Recovering After Alleged Car Thief Crashes Into Her During Pursuit News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621571b5fb567d0f23657a02/woman-recovering-after-alleged-car-thief-crashes-into-her-during-pursuit- | https://www.news9.com/story/621571b5fb567d0f23657a02/woman-recovering-after-alleged-car-thief-crashes-into-her-during-pursuit- |
Oklahoman National Guard Members Remember Time Spent In Ukraine
As the world focuses on Ukraine, some Oklahomans are looking back on their time spent in the county.
That includes members of the National Guard who helped train Ukrainian troops.
"Our main goal there was to help the develop a combat training center that aligned with NATO standards," said Capt. Kayla Christopher with the Oklahoma National Guard.
She was one of the 500 guardsmen that served in western Ukraine. Some stayed for six months, others like Christopher were there for almost a year.
"We would train them in infantry-based defense and security tactics," said Capt. Christopher. "But then we would also train their staff because we wanted to build a cadre that could train themselves in the future."
They also helped modernize Ukraine's facilities, helping with housing and even building a simulation center.
"The Ukrainians I saw are not going to accept a Russian occupation of their country," said News 9's Alex Cameron.
Cameron was the only broadcast journalist from Oklahoma to see the training firsthand.
He also saw spirit of the Ukrainian people.
"There was still fighting going on in the eastern part of Ukraine," said Cameron.
Even though Cameron and the troops he was with were very close to Poland's border, many were still personally impacted.
"Every one of them had some sort of a story knew someone who was in Kiev or the eastern part of Ukraine," said Cameron. "So, it was an issue that very much touched them all."
Tuesday, President Biden laid out "swift and severe" sanctions after Russian President Vladimir Putin recognized two regions of Ukraine as independent.
“Like I said, we as Oklahoma guardsmen went out into the community and formed bonds with these people," said Capt. Christopher. "So, I think for a lot of us the Ukrainian people are in our hearts."
Ashley Holden As the world focuses on Ukraine, some Oklahomans are looking back on their time spent in the county. | 2022-02-23T13:50:54Z | www.news9.com | Oklahoman National Guard Members Remember Time Spent In Ukraine News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/62157cd54aff4f7f3cc9189e/oklahoman-national-guard-members-remember-time-spent-in-ukraine | https://www.news9.com/story/62157cd54aff4f7f3cc9189e/oklahoman-national-guard-members-remember-time-spent-in-ukraine |
Millwood Jr. and Sr. high students have been putting in a lot of work in preparation for their Black Heritage Program.
“It’s an opportunity to just be expressive through our art, through our music talent, through our culture,” said Warren Pete, Millwood Jr. High School principal.
The art showcase will allow students to display and sell art that they created.
“I think it’s very awesome, I guess, because they get to see my artwork,” said 8th grader, Giselle Galvan.
The young artists also recall what inspired their pieces.
“Black History Month, it was just something, I just look up pictures and I can draw them off of a reference,” said 8th grader Ann Wytch.
“The morning that I drew it I was not having a good day, so I just started drawing, and drawing, and drawing,” said 7th grader Vyse’an Embry.
After the art exhibit, students will then take attendees through a presentation of the All-Black towns of Oklahoma.
“Then we’ll end it on stage where we’ll recreate some of the Black history moments of the great African Americans,” said Pete.
The marching band will also take part in the celebration, as well as some Millwood legends.
“We plan to have Coach Spears here also Coach Franklin who have been, I mean they are the staple of Millwood sports,” said Pete.
The senior high will have their presentations on Wednesday and the Junior high take over on Thursday both presentations will be from 6 to 8 p.m.
“No tickets, everyone is welcome, you know just come and we’ll take care of you,” said Pete.
If winter weather causes the event to be postponed, the school has a reschedule date of March 30. | 2022-02-23T13:51:00Z | www.news9.com | Millwood Jr. And Sr. High Students Plan Black Heritage Program News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/62157eaf955af2072bb6f90a/millwood-jr-and-sr-high-students-plan-black-heritage-program | https://www.news9.com/story/62157eaf955af2072bb6f90a/millwood-jr-and-sr-high-students-plan-black-heritage-program |
The City of Oklahoma City responded to a water main break on the city’s southwest side Wednesday morning.
News 9 noticed the break around 9 a.m. near Interstate 240 and May Avenue.
City crews told News 9’s Ashley Holden that they are investigating the type of water main break that took place at this location.
What could cause delays for the city is warming up their equipment enough to properly seal the break. | 2022-02-23T21:06:52Z | www.news9.com | City Of OKC Working On Water Main Break In SW OKC News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6216513b1f81670726a16be6/city-of-okc-working-on-water-main-break-in-sw-okc | https://www.news9.com/story/6216513b1f81670726a16be6/city-of-okc-working-on-water-main-break-in-sw-okc |
The largest electricity providers in the state reported thousands of outages Wednesday morning but numbers have since dwindled.
As of 2:30 p.m., 64 customers statewide have yet to have their power restored.
As of noon, a combined 204 customers of the Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperative (159), Oklahoma Gas and Electric (37) and Public Service of Oklahoma (eight) are without power.
Earlier this morning, around 10:30 a.m., OG&E said two outages in the Guthrie area were responsible for nearly 2,000 customers (1,982) to lose power.
Rural providers, such as OAEC, reported outages of their own. Nearly 1,500 customers (1,492) in McClain County were without electricity. | 2022-02-23T21:07:10Z | www.news9.com | Some Oklahomans Are Without Power As Winter Storm Continues News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6216616de53c280727688040/thousands-of-oklahomans-are-without-power-as-winter-storm-continues | https://www.news9.com/story/6216616de53c280727688040/thousands-of-oklahomans-are-without-power-as-winter-storm-continues |
OG&E is currently working to restore power for more than 6,000 customers around the state.
As of 7:45 p.m., 6,127 OG&E customers statewide have yet to have their power restored.
6,049 of those customers are in Oklahoma City. The outage is estimated to be fixed by 10:15 p.m.
OG&E tells News 9 that the outage is due to a circuit issue in north Oklahoma City. | 2022-02-24T03:11:29Z | www.news9.com | More Than 6,000 Oklahomans Are Without Power As Winter Storm Continues News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6216616de53c280727688040/some-oklahomans-are-without-power-as-winter-storm-continues | https://www.news9.com/story/6216616de53c280727688040/some-oklahomans-are-without-power-as-winter-storm-continues |
BRUNSWICK, Georgia -
Back-to-back convictions of the men who chased and killed Ahmaud Arbery have bolstered civil rights activists who viewed the case as a test of the criminal justice system.
A jury returned federal hate crime convictions against father and son Greg and Travis McMichael and their neighbor, William “Roddie” Bryan on Tuesday, the day before the second anniversary of Arbery’s death.
The verdicts came three months after the same white men were convicted of murder in a Georgia state court. Arbery was 25 years old when he was chased by pickup trucks and fatally shot in a subdivision outside Brunswick, Georgia, on Feb. 23, 2020. | 2022-02-24T03:12:20Z | www.news9.com | Ahmaud Arbery's Hometown Hopes For Change After Convictions News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6216978af49d27071d406af4/ahmaud-arberys-hometown-hopes-for-change-after-convictions | https://www.news9.com/story/6216978af49d27071d406af4/ahmaud-arberys-hometown-hopes-for-change-after-convictions |
Deep Routes Of Deep Deuce: Former Residents Remember Neighborhood They Were Forced To Leave
The Deep Deuce District on the edge of Bricktown is filled with trendy restaurants, apartments, and high-end brownstones, but it was once an instrumental part of Oklahoma City's Black History.
"I never knew that I was walking in history or around history," Anita Arnold, Black Liberated Arts Center executive director said.
In the 1920's Deep Deuce was a thriving Black community.
"It was exciting. It was amazing. It was culturally enriching. It was a lot of things to a lot of people,” Arnold said.
During the day Black-owned medical offices, theatres, and other businesses bustled with customers.
At night, the soulful sounds of blues and jazz filled the streets, greats like Charlie Christian, Duke Ellington and Billie Holiday all played and stayed here.
“They were only allowed to stay in these Black-owned hotels, eat at those restaurants, so that's what this area held for us so it was a safe zone for people that were traveling through,” Bob Davis, former preacher at Calvary Baptist Church said.
The safe space rose out of the Jim Crow era. An Oklahoma City map from 1933 displays the segregated areas in Oklahoma City. The red line shows the division mandated by City ordinance between Black and White neighborhoods.
City mandates were put in place to assure this. An emergency ordinance from 1918 ordered separate blocks for residences by “white and colored people.”
The document states. "it shall be unlawful for a White person to use a residence, or place of abode, any house, building, or structure, or any part thereof located in any colored block, as the same in hereinafter defined, and it should also be unlawful for any colored person to use a residence or place of abode, any house, building or structure, or any part thereof located in any white block as the same is hereinafter defined.”
"It was an economy, Second Street. It was African Americans supported each other and they created their own economy," Arnold said.
Businesses ranged from anything you can think of clothing stores, barber shops, a black owned newspaper.
"I was working at Randolph Drug Store behind the soda fountain behind the soda counter and I made malts and sundaes and stuff like that, and Dr. Randolph was a pharmacist,” Arnold said.
Dr. Randolph also served as the first Black principal of Oklahoma City's school for Black students.
Homeowners in the area became leaders in the community fighting against racial injustice. Many of the meetings for the for the cause were held at the Calvary Baptist Church.
“They use to call it a silk stocking church back in the day and that phrase just kind of meant it was the place to be. It would be full as has been told to me. It would be full on the Sunday mornings. You had to get in early to make sure you had a seat,” Davis said.
"Martin Luther King Jr. graduated from seminary at an early age. He stood right here in this pulpit and preached a sermon,” Davis said.
Bob Davis was the former preacher.
“Strategies for a number of things that happened during the Civil Rights movement, Clara Luper and others who were part of that. They came to this spot to repair those students who did sit ins downtown and various places," Davis said.
But over time the buzz around Deep Deuce began to fizzle out and developers noticed.
"So I think you have to go back to the beginning of Urban Renewal. It was originally created to help redevelop blighted areas and the first area of focus was downtown,” Cathy O’Connor, president for the alliance of economic development said.
In the 70s, Urban Renewal began working with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation for the construction of I-235 which would go right through NE 2nd.
"Urban Renewal was also known as urban removal. It was about removing as they say for the public good," Gary Royal, former president of the Harrison-Walnut neighborhood association said.
Gary Royal was the neighborhood president back then. Residents and Civil rights leaders tried to stop the project, but after years of fighting in the mid-1980's Construction of I-235 began.
"Hundreds were impacted directly and indirectly. As a community we were impacted. We lost. It's in here, it's in your heart. It's in your soul. It can't be replaced, so there's still a sense of lost,” Royal said.
Families were moved to the J.F.K neighborhood and many businesses were either demolished or forced to close.
“I don't think they completely understood the impact in neighborhoods that had or that it had at the time and continues to have. It disrupted places where people grew up where their grandparents lived, where they went to church all of those things and I think that had a really detrimental effect particularly the Black community in Oklahoma City,” O’Connor said.
According to the 2020 U.S. Census, the once thriving Black community is now home to about 1,000 white people and nearly 90 Black people.
When you walk through the area, residents said there's barely anything left that resembles the Deep Deuce they loved. Upscale apartments now line the streets of the neighborhood and what wasn't demolished has been turned into places like restaurants and hotels.
“Folk that occupy the spaces down there now. They don't even really know the history. They make up stuff I think at times you know that's not true,” Arnold said.
“And unfortunately, that is the past that we inherit here at urban renewal but we do work very hard today to try and create some type of reconciliation and repair some of that damage that was done in the past," O’Connor said.
“It's just you shouldn't have to tear everything down and move everything out to show some progress. It looks good, but the families that use to live here are not here though. It's okay though we move forward. It's life,” Royal said.
Anjelicia Bruton The Deep Deuce District on the edge of Bricktown is filled with trendy restaurants, apartments, and high-end brownstones, but it was once an instrumental part of Oklahoma City's Black History. | 2022-02-24T19:27:32Z | www.news9.com | Deep Roots Of Deep Deuce: Former Residents Remember Neighborhood They Were Forced To Leave News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/62170caa08360a071eb02257/deep-roots-of-deep-deuce:-former-residents-remember-neighborhood-they-were-forced-to-leave | https://www.news9.com/story/62170caa08360a071eb02257/deep-roots-of-deep-deuce:-former-residents-remember-neighborhood-they-were-forced-to-leave |
One person is dead after a house fire in Lincoln County early Thursday morning.
Volunteer crews were dispatched about 1:30 a.m. to a rural area near the intersection of Britton Road and County Road 3310 east of Harrah.
Southwest Lincoln County Volunteer Fire Capt. Brad Morgan said they discovered the body of the 62-year-old male victim near the door of the home.
Morgan said crews arrived to find a single wide mobile home about 75% engulfed in flames.
“Crews were en route, dispatched advised us this was a working structure fire, they had several callers calling about it, and they advised us there was possibly one male trapped,” Morgan said.
A woman was outside, saying her brother was still inside and had wanted to try and save the cats.
She said she woke up to a pop and saw a couch on fire.
She and her brother tried to flip the couch over and fight the fire and became trapped.
“She said she was trying to help him get out, and kind of dragging him because I guess he had stage four cancer and problems walking. He told her to get out, and that he was going to go back and save the cats. Unfortunately, he never made it out behind her,” Morgan said.
Crews discovered the victim at about 4 a.m. just inside the front door. The fire was still smoldering Thursday afternoon.
Wellston and Jacktown volunteer fire departments also assisted.
News 9 talked to several of the victim’s family and neighbors, but no one wanted to comment on him or the fire at this time.
Crews left the scene at about 8 a.m.
The cause of this fire is still under investigation by the state fire marshal. We’ll have more details as they become available. | 2022-02-25T01:07:29Z | www.news9.com | 1 Person Dies In Overnight House Fire Near Harrah News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6217e5611b5c5507288dea29/1-person-dies-in-overnight-house-fire-near-harrah | https://www.news9.com/story/6217e5611b5c5507288dea29/1-person-dies-in-overnight-house-fire-near-harrah |
The Oklahoma City Fire Department responded to a house fire in southeast Oklahoma City on Thursday afternoon.
The fire was located in a neighborhood near Southeast 59th Street and South Bryant Avenue.
Authorities said the homeowner was burning wood in the fireplace when their son said he smelled smoke upstairs.
The homeowner and their son then found the chimney on fire and saw it quickly spreading to other parts of the home.
The fire department reported no injuries in the fire.
The cause of it remains under investigation. | 2022-02-25T01:07:35Z | www.news9.com | Crews Respond To House Fire In SE OKC News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6217e5d33ab0b60729543922/crews-respond-to-house-fire-in-se-okc | https://www.news9.com/story/6217e5d33ab0b60729543922/crews-respond-to-house-fire-in-se-okc |
ANADARKO, Oklahoma -
President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., announced his appointment of Kenneth R. Corn as the USDA State Director for Rural Development in Oklahoma.
Corn has spent his professional career serving the people of Oklahoma, including serving in the Oklahoma House of Representatives after being elected at age 22 and later in the Oklahoma State Senate. During his tenure in the Oklahoma Legislature, Corn was served as the Democratic Caucus Chair as well as the chair of the Senate Appropriations Sub-committee for Public Safety and Judiciary. During his service in the Oklahoma Legislature, Corn was a driving force behind increasing teacher pay, and was the principal author of the bill covering 100 percent of the health insurance cost for school personnel throughout Oklahoma. Additionally, he tackled prison overcrowding and staffing shortages, created additional academies to train additional State Troopers and increased the salary of state law enforcement officials.
After serving 12 years in the Oklahoma Legislature, Corn returned home to Poteau, Oklahoma where he worked in the oil and gas transportation industry. In 2015, Corn returned to public service as the City Manager of Anadarko, Oklahoma.
During his 7 years as City Manager of Anadarko, Corn overhauled the City's purchasing process, billing systems and renegotiated contractual obligations bringing the city back to financial stability and allowing significant investments in capital improvements.
He renewed partnerships with the federal, state, county and tribal governments that generated over $2 million in grants awarded to Anadarko and completed large capital improvements for the City, including significant upgrades to City water and sewage systems, improved sidewalks making them handicap accessible, repaved and repaired roadways, added additional landscaping, public art, and public parks to Anadarko.
In addition, by fostering partnership with local industries and businesses and tribal governments, Corn developed festivals including Hoppy Day, Zombies-in-the-Park, Kites-and-Flights, and a traveling Easter Bunny and Santa, all free to the public.
During his tenure, Anadarko has withstood historic weather, including a “hundred-year flood,” ice storms and record-breaking artic temperatures. During each crisis, Corn became widely acclaimed by Anadarko citizens for working on sight with city crews and updating people via Facebook Live.
“It has been my honor to serve Anadarko and our community,” Corn said, “The history, the culture, the resilience – my time here has been very special. Working to improve rural Oklahoma has been a calling for me, and I hope I can continue to help Anadarko and communities like it throughout the state. I’m honored to be appointed by the President to be able to continue this work.”
Corn will begin his new duties after taking the oath of office on March 14, 2022. | 2022-02-25T05:56:47Z | www.news9.com | Biden Selects Kenneth R. Corn To Serve As USDA State Director For Rural Development In Oklahoma News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/62181cbed6f124073006ebd1/biden-selects-kenneth-r-corn-to-serve-as-usda-state-director-for-rural-development-in-oklahoma | https://www.news9.com/story/62181cbed6f124073006ebd1/biden-selects-kenneth-r-corn-to-serve-as-usda-state-director-for-rural-development-in-oklahoma |
Senators, congresspeople, professors, and leaders in Oklahoma have been posting on social media to share their thoughts on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Wednesday night, Senator Jim Inhofe, a ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, called Russia's escalation of their invasion into Ukraine an unprecedented, unwarranted, and unprovoked attack, saying it is in the U.S.'s best interest to respond strongly and provide defensive aid.
Thursday afternoon, President Biden announced that the United States will be imposing sanctions against Russia.
Representative Stephanie Bice supported this, telling News 9 she believes it's important we continue to defend our allies.
“This is a power-hungry move by Putin that really threatens the stability of Europe and the stability of peace around the world," Rep. Bice said. "I am glad that we are finally putting some sanctions into place."
Others speculated about Russian president Vladimir Putin's reason for the attack in the first place.
"He wants to restore the Soviet Union to its old dictator communist-style government," Rep Mullin said.
Putin has stated that he would not allow Ukraine to join NATO, citing fears of nuclear capable missiles being in striking distance of Moscow. He claims the goal of Russian troops is to assist in the ‘demilitarization and denazification’ of Ukraine.
Representative Tom Cole put out a statement saying it is reminiscent of what the world witnessed almost a century ago in the 1930s, saying, "The world was slow to unite aggression and it must not make the same mistake today."
Senator James Lankford also weighed in saying he and his wife are praying for the people of Ukraine.
He also called the Russian leader a murderous dictator.
Rep. Kevin Hern (OK-01) also issued a statement on the Russia Ukraine Situation:
“There comes a point when sanctions and strongly worded statements lose their power. With a full-scale invasion underway, I believe we are far beyond that point. The United States is not obligated to send troops to the battlefield; regardless, Ukraine isn’t asking for military support. What they need is material support, which Ukraine’s allies around the world are working to provide. Russia has allies too, but Russia’s allies include the world’s worst dictators, terrorists, and thugs. True American leadership projects strength across the globe, which is what we had under President Trump. Thanks to Biden’s cursory attempts at diplomacy, the United States has lost the respect of our foreign adversaries; they don’t fear an American response anymore, because they know it will never come. Biden has failed our allies, but it’s not too late for him to take action to protect Americans from the consequences of his foreign policy failures. Biden must immediately resume construction of the Keystone XL Pipeline. He must reinstate the Trump-era policies that put us on the path to energy independence. Anything less from this White House will cause further hardship on the American people.” | 2022-02-25T05:56:59Z | www.news9.com | Oklahoma Leaders React To Invasion Of Ukraine News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621822274106110726436ecf/oklahoma-leaders-react-to-invasion-of-ukraine | https://www.news9.com/story/621822274106110726436ecf/oklahoma-leaders-react-to-invasion-of-ukraine |
U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe was first elected to the Senate in 1994. Multiple reports said this is his last year and he will announce his resignation in the next few days.
Senator Inhofe is expected to announce his last day in the Senate will be December 30th. Dr. Brett Sharp is a professor at UCO. He said this would make Inhofe's seat available for the upcoming general election in November. | 2022-02-25T05:57:23Z | www.news9.com | Reports: US Senator Jim Inhofe Expected To Announce Resignation Next Week, Serve Through December News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621857ca41061107264950b9/reports:-us-senator-jim-inhofe-expected-to-announce-resignation-next-week-serve-through-december | https://www.news9.com/story/621857ca41061107264950b9/reports:-us-senator-jim-inhofe-expected-to-announce-resignation-next-week-serve-through-december |
“We’ve tried winning and tried losing and winning is sure more fun,” James Mountain Inhofe told a celebratory crowd in 1994 after winning his first statewide election to the United States Senate.
Inhofe, now 87, was first elected to the Oklahoma State Legislature in 1967, becoming desk-mates with Democrat David Boren, the man who would beat out Inhofe in the 1974 race for Governor.
“Let me tell you, it wasn’t a red state then,” Inhofe said on the U.S. Senate floor years later. “We had a House of Representatives of 100 people and only seven of us were Republicans.”
After 10 years in the Statehouse, Inhofe became Tulsa’s 34th Mayor in 1978 beating Democrat Rodger Randle, 51% to 46%.
However, Inhofe, an avid aviator, set his political sights higher, running for Congress in 1987 then U,S, Senate in 1994.
His love of aviation was prominently featured in contemporary campaign ads.
“I’ve always set out to serve you as a United States Senator as long as I can fly upside down,” Inhofe said in a 2020 campaign ad.
A climate change denier, Inhofe rose to Chairman of the Senate Environmental Committee in 2015 often sparring with his close friend and rival colleague Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-CA.
“It is our mission now to stop the EPA and it’s job killing agenda,” Inhofe told constituents in a 2010 video.
The same year he assumed the chairmanship, video of Inhofe tossing a snowball across the 163-year-old Senate chamber went viral.
“It’s verry, verry cold out,” Inhofe said. “Very unseasonal, so here Mr. Chairman, catch this,” he said.
After the 2018 death of Sen. John McCain, Inhofe became chairman of the powerful Senate Armed Services Committee and was steadfast in pushing for increased military spending.
“No bill is more important to protecting our freedoms than the national defense authorization act,” Inhofe said of the annual military budget bill in 2021.
Inhofe's political prowess was noted by Presidents of the United States from time-to-time.
“Mayor Jim Inhofe of Tulsa has been especially supportive,” President Ronald Reagan said of his 1982 federalism plan, addressing told a joint session of the Oklahoma legislature.
“I’d also like to thank Jim Inhofe, who’s been so terrific in so many different ways,” President Donald Trump during a 2017 executive order signing, marking his first step in effort to undo the Waters of the United States Obama-era clean water rule.
One of the most conservative men in Congress, Inhofe was also able to make friends across the aisle.
“He is really, really conservative,” Sen. Bernie Sanders told CNN during the 2020 presidential campaign. “But you know what, he’s a decent guy and I like him, and he and I are friends.”
In Washington Inhofe often spoke of his 20 kids and grandkids and his wife Kay. | 2022-02-25T05:57:42Z | www.news9.com | James Mountain Inhofe: A Look At the Career Of Oklahoma's Longest Serving U.S. Senator News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621859b54106110726498e28/james-mountain-inhofe:-a-look-at-the-career-of-oklahomas-longest-serving-us-senator- | https://www.news9.com/story/621859b54106110726498e28/james-mountain-inhofe:-a-look-at-the-career-of-oklahomas-longest-serving-us-senator- |
Long-time Oklahoma Senator Jim Inhofe's expected resignation could put Gov. Stitt in a powerful position.
Jim Inhofe is expected to serve in the senate until December 30th, which means his seat would be open to Republicans during the November General Elections.
Dr. Brett Sharp, a professor at UCO, says the resignation could put Governor Stitt in a very powerful position.
If Inhofe were to step down before March 1st, Senate Bill 959 that was passed by lawmakers last year changed the process on how vacancies would be filled.
It would allow Gov. Stitt to appoint someone to fill any empty seats in Congress.
This announcement makes it a big election year for Republicans, with the Attorney General, Governor and now US Senator seats all up for the taking.
87-year-old Inhofe first began public service in sooner state in 1967 in the state legislature. He eventually moved on to become the mayor of Tulsa and an Oklahoma US Representative, before eventually becoming a US Senator in 1994.
Inhofe is now a ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and he says he believes it's in America's best interest to respond strongly to the Russian attack on Ukraine. | 2022-02-25T21:27:33Z | www.news9.com | UCO Professor: Inhofe Resignation Puts Gov. Stitt In Powerful Position News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6218f0f3d33f260727b706a1/uco-professor:-inhofe-resignation-puts-gov-stitt-in-powerful-position | https://www.news9.com/story/6218f0f3d33f260727b706a1/uco-professor:-inhofe-resignation-puts-gov-stitt-in-powerful-position |
An expert on Russian affairs at the University of Tulsa, professor Dr. Benjamin Peters, says he sees four possible outcomes of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Either Russia annexes the southeast corner of Ukraine, attempts to seize the entire country, Russia's president installs a puppet in the capital or this instigates a global war.
We've seen Ukrainians in target cities fueling up and escaping, while some are seeking shelter.
It's a world of questions on what's next in Ukraine.
The Tulsa expert has lived in both Ukraine and Russia and says he is terrified for his friends living there.
He says those living in Ukraine are living through horror, but also adds this war could lead to an unthinkable human death toll.
“I think the only logic that makes sense it to destabilize what could be his last chance at reaching for a Russian empire,” said Dr. Benjamin Peters with TU.
Dr. Peters says while this will impact Americans at the gas pump and other sectors of the economy, it's nothing in comparison to the cost of a war.
“It is categorically against everyone’s interest in the world to put boots on the ground in Ukraine. That would provoke almost surely nuclear response from Russia.” | 2022-02-25T21:28:23Z | www.news9.com | TU Professor: 4 Possible Outcomes Of Russian's Invasion Of Ukraine News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621906fad59ea5072a695160/tu-professor:-4-possible-outcomes-of-russians-invasion-of-ukraine | https://www.news9.com/story/621906fad59ea5072a695160/tu-professor:-4-possible-outcomes-of-russians-invasion-of-ukraine |
Oklahoma Politicians React To Sen. Inhofe's Resignation
Former Oklahoma Governor Frank Keating Discusses Jim Inhofe's Career Impact
Rep. Tom Cole Reacts To Sen. Jim Inhofe's Retirement
The announcement that U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe plans to resign has other Oklahoma office-holders making their intentions known.
Gov. Kevin Stitt has made his intentions clear: he wants a second term as governor.
"Due to the questions from press, let me be clear about this upcoming election cycle. I am fully committed to serving the State of Oklahoma as Governor and seeking the support of Oklahomans for another four years in this role. The Oklahoma Turnaround is well underway with record low unemployment, historic levels of investment in education, the largest savings account in State history, and tax cuts for all. My focus continues to be on delivering a Top Ten state by working with my friends in the Legislature to advance transformational, conservative reforms that protect freedoms and benefit all 4 million Oklahomans." - Governor Kevin Stitt
Stitt also paid tribute to the outgoing Senator:
“US Senator Jim Inhofe has served the State of Oklahoma with unwavering devotion. At every turn, Oklahoma has benefited from his profound vision for a strong national military, robust infrastructure system, and vibrant domestic energy production. I am grateful he has committed to serving the State and our nation through the end of 2022.”
Stitt wasn't the only one to decline an opportunity to run for Inhofe's seat. U.S. Rep. Frank Lucas's office issued this statement:
"Congressman Lucas is flattered by the many calls from people around the state about the U.S. Senate race, but his sense of responsibility is telling him it's critically important to be the most senior Republican on the House Agriculture Committee when the House debates and drafts the 2023 Farm Bill then it is to be just another freshman on the Senate Ag Committee - and at the same time he looks forward to the opportunity to Chair the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee in the 118th Congress." | 2022-02-26T08:40:17Z | www.news9.com | Stitt, Lucas Do Not Intend To Run For Open U.S. Senate Seat News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/62191c87011d00072b717086/stitt-lucas-do-not-intend-to-run-for-open-us-senate-seat | https://www.news9.com/story/62191c87011d00072b717086/stitt-lucas-do-not-intend-to-run-for-open-us-senate-seat |
WATCH: Political Analyst Scott Mitchell On Sen. Inhofe's Legacy
What Sen. Inhofe's Departure Could Mean For Oklahoma's Politicians In Washington
Jim Inhofe Announces He's Leaving The US Senate
U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe made it official, giving up his seat after 28 years in the Senate. He submitted his intention to resign Friday.
Inhofe will finish out the year, but his announcement before March 1 opens the seat to a vote during the general election November.
This is the letter he submitted to the Oklahoma Secretary of State:
Secretary of State Brian Bingman
2300 N. Lincoln Boulevard, Room 122
Dear Secretary Bingman:
It has been the greatest honor to serve the people of Oklahoma since I first entered public service
in 1967, but after much prayer and consideration, Kay and I feel the time has come to stand aside
and support the next generation of Oklahoma leaders.
Accordingly, pursuant to 26 O.S. $ 12-119, I am writing to inform you of my intention to retire
from the United States Senate on January 3, 2023. Under state law 26 O.S. $ 12-101, this
constitutes my irrevocable pledge to retire at the end of the 117th Congress, which allows the
special election to be held concurrent with the existing election schedule.
I am excited to announce that I am endorsing Bartlesville-native and fellow Tulsan, Luke
Holland in the special election to replace me, because Luke is a fierce conservative and the best
person to continue my legacy of a strong national defense and investment in local infrastructure.
May God bless the great state of Oklahoma and the United States of America.
Cherie a Cante
James M. Inhofe
Cc: Governor Kevin Stitt | 2022-02-26T08:40:23Z | www.news9.com | U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe Formally Submits Notice To Retire News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6219218d168332071b008a25/us-sen-jim-inhofe-formally-submits-notice-to-retire | https://www.news9.com/story/6219218d168332071b008a25/us-sen-jim-inhofe-formally-submits-notice-to-retire |
To be sure, there's a caveat about this early data since tens of millions of refunds have yet to be issued. That means the typical tax refund could change and even grow as the season progresses, as taxpayers have until April 18 to file their federal returns.
In 2021, the IRS received 169 million individual returns and issued 129 million refunds, according to agency's data. So far in 2022, the IRS has issued more than 4 million refunds.
Most Americans should get their refunds within 21 days of filing, according to the IRS. But there are a few issues that could hold up a tax refund, the agency has said. First, the IRS is urging taxpayers to file electronically and ask for direct deposit, since that will speed processing. (Paper returns must be dealt with by hand by agency workers, and that adds to the amount of time required to process a return.) But some tax credits could also slow processing. People who claim the Child Tax Credit or Earned Income Tax Credit may face a longer wait because of anti-fraud measures. The IRS recently said people who claimed those credits should see their refunds land in their bank accounts by March 1. Taxpayers can check the status of their refund on the IRS site by clicking "Where's My Refund?" under the Refunds tab. People will need to know their Social Security number or their Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, their filing status (such as married filing jointly) and their exact refund amount.
The largest share of taxpayers — 44% — plan to file their taxes in February, Bankrate found. Another 25% said they'll file in March, while an additional 16% will wait until April. The remaining tax payers surveyed by Bankrate said they either didn't know when they would file, or planned to do so after this year's April 18 federal deadline. Getting a refund can provide a dose of financial relief to taxpayers, but almost one-third are worried that the money won't go as far this year due to rising inflation, Bankrate found. Inflation is surging at its fastest pace in 40 years, impacting everything from groceries to gasoline. And Russia's attack on Ukraine is likely to further push up prices of fuel and other commodities in the U.S., experts say. | 2022-02-26T08:40:54Z | www.news9.com | Americans Are Worried About Smaller Tax Refunds. They May Have Reason For Concern News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/62194693051f100728d89519/americans-are-worried-about-smaller-tax-refunds-they-may-have-reason-for-concern | https://www.news9.com/story/62194693051f100728d89519/americans-are-worried-about-smaller-tax-refunds-they-may-have-reason-for-concern |
More than two weeks ago, the Canton apartment complex went up in flames in northwest Oklahoma City. The fire burned for days as smoke filled the air and seeped into surrounding buildings.
Most of The Ellison Hotel's 120 rooms were booked the night of the fire, but hours after the first firetrucks showed up, those guests had checked out, and the hotel hasn't taken a booking since.
"I will say that throughout the property you could smell smoke. You don't isolate smoke," The Ellison Hotel sales and marketing director Carrie Parker said.
A few weeks after The Ellison opened, on Feb. 8, the Canton apartment complex caught fire.
"It was smoking next door, smoldering next door for four days and the wind was coming our direction for pretty much that entire time." Parker said. "So we took the brunt of the smoke from the fire and the aftermath."
The night of the fire Ellison officials kept in constant contact with fire crews and took turns walking the property to make sure guests and staff stayed out of harm's way.
Parker said the extent of the smoke damage and how long it will take to clean is still unknown.
One of the hardest parts is knowing the hotel rooms and restaurant tables will be empty, Parker said.
"We opened the hotel December 6th, Milo November 22nd. So the hotel had been open a little over two months, and Milo two weeks to that, so we were very young," Parker said. "Of course, we were excited to have neighbors. We were excited to have that traffic that just might come next door to Milo for a drink when we got our rooftop open. Even though the businesses are young, The Ellison is doing what it can to keep staff on board."
There is no set reopening date yet.
"We are doing everything to keep them active, engaged," Parker said. "We are eager and ready. That's kind of the thing. We're very eager to be with each other. We're very eager to be with our guests and the community." | 2022-02-26T08:41:13Z | www.news9.com | Newly-Opened Ellison Hotel Temporarily Closes After Canton Apartment Fire News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6219527b2a4edd0730f18968/newlyopened-ellison-hotel-temporarily-closes-after-canton-apartment-fire | https://www.news9.com/story/6219527b2a4edd0730f18968/newlyopened-ellison-hotel-temporarily-closes-after-canton-apartment-fire |
Three Friends Get Hotel Rooms For The Homeless Amidst Winter Storm
Three friends bound together by their passion for the homeless. They’ve labeled themselves the arctic freeze ladies and they are really making a difference for the homeless population in Oklahoma City.
“Last winter when the ice storm came in, I had a woman with her three children living in a tent, that was buried in ice,” said Jodi Berge with the ministry On Bended Knee.
That sight was too much for Delisa Jones, Jessica Laster and Jodi Berge to handle.
The three ladies have been helping the homeless for years, but that sight took things to another level.
“We created a fundraiser on Facebook and just started reaching out to our friends, our family and our followers, you know seeing if anyone wanted to sponsor somebody a night in a hotel just to get them out of the cold,” said Jessica Laster with Sandwiches With Love.
Donte is homeless and is really appreciative for the hotel room for him and his daughter.
“I have woken up to people dead next to me, because of this winter weather before, you know what I’m saying. People have actually frozen to death,” said Donte.
With this week’s arctic blast, the group has about 60 hotel rooms currently rented out to homeless people.
“In those rooms there’s going to be at least two to three people with the exception of a few of the rooms that have elderlies in them, they’re in there with themselves and their pet,” said Delisa Jones with Second Chance Thrift Store.
With so many shelters open for the homeless, the ladies are frequently asked, why they pay for hotel rooms?
The ladies have great appreciation for the shelters and recognize the need for what they do, however they aren’t for everyone.
“Not everybody can go to the shelter, some people have animals, some people have family and mental health issues, the shelters are not always safe for everyone,” said Laster.
The ladies also add a few extras during the hotel stay.
“We make sure that they have enough food for the time of their stay there, we make sure they have hygiene,” said Jones.
As the homeless transition out of the hotels, most of them will return to nothing.
“We like to give them a three-person tent, a zero-degree sleeping bag, socks gloves, emergency blankets, food,” said Laster.
They even supply bus passes and hygiene products. Attempting to provide a few necessities.
“They are, like our friends. And so, I just don’t like people throwing people away, it’s not what it’s about,” said Berge.
Now none of the ladies receive any money for their services. They have raised close to $14,000.
They can be reached through their Facebook pages
https://www.facebook.com/delisasecondchances, https://www.facebook.com/sandwicheswithlove, https://www.facebook.com/jodi.berge.7
Mike Glover Three friends bound together by their passion for the homeless. They’ve labeled themselves the arctic freeze ladies and they are really making a difference for the homeless population in Oklahoma City. | 2022-02-26T08:42:02Z | www.news9.com | 3 Friends Get Hotel Rooms For The Homeless Amidst Winter Storm News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621979bd878aa607277a0329/3-friends-get-hotel-rooms-for-the-homeless-amidst-winter-storm | https://www.news9.com/story/621979bd878aa607277a0329/3-friends-get-hotel-rooms-for-the-homeless-amidst-winter-storm |
Gas prices were already on the rise before the Russia attacks on Ukraine started this week, but with things heating up overseas, it’s not clear how this will impact the price at the pump.
Jerry Bohnen, the managing editor for the daily newsletter OKEnergy says, that prices at the pump have been up for almost two years.
Right now, the average price for gas in Oklahoma is $3.23, which is a few cents more since the start of the invasion.
“Investors and traders aren't sure what to expect next. We don't know what's going to happen to the oil supply and gas supply that is coming out of Russia, in fact the United
States is still importing crude oil from Russia as of today, so Putin has not turned that spigot off to the United States,” Bohnen said.
He said everything is up in the air. It all depends on how the Biden Administration responds to Russia's invasion.
“I will do everything in my power to limit the pain the American people are feeling at the gas pump. This is critical to me, but this aggression cannot go unanswered,” President Joe Biden said.
One way Bohnen said prices could decrease is if oil companies start drilling, but they're being more cautious with their next steps.
“They're paying more attention to what their shareholders want, so they're trying to return dividends to their shareholders instead of going hog wire on drilling operations trying to obtain huge revenues."
He said right now a barrel costs is actually down. It's around $91, but this could easily change depending on the invasion in the Ukraine. | 2022-02-26T08:42:26Z | www.news9.com | Russia Attacks On Ukraine Could Impact The Price At The Pump News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/62199d5bc331cc0726de9564/russia-attacks-on-ukraine-could-impact-the-price-at-the-pump | https://www.news9.com/story/62199d5bc331cc0726de9564/russia-attacks-on-ukraine-could-impact-the-price-at-the-pump |
Federal officials are warning of possible cyber attacks by Russian-backed groups against American targets.
“While there are no specific or credible cyber threats to the U.S. homeland at this time, we are mindful of the potential for Russia’s destabilizing actions,” read an alert by the U.S. Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency.
“Every organization—large and small—must be prepared to respond to disruptive cyber activity.”
Russia engaged used cyberattacks as part of their assault on Ukraine to infect hundreds of computers and knock out government websites, the Associated Press reports.
Teresa Rule, a cybersecurity expert and president of RNT Professional Services in Norman, said the explicit use of cyberattacks shows Russia’s willingness to infiltrate other countries’ networks.
“It’s not contained to a specific area of operation. It’s a global attack,” Rule said.
“We’re seeing attacks on certain critical infrastructure sectors. Energy, water, manufacturing, transportation.”
“I would say now, more than ever, we need to have increased cyber hygiene and have our ability to respond to cyberattacks.”
President Joe Biden mentioned the possibility of Russian cyberattacks in a capital address on Thursday.
Rule recommends individuals and businesses back up their data to external hard drives in the event of a ransomware attack.
The Cyber Command team at the Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services (OMES) said they are aware of the alert put out by CISA.
The team recommends using multi-factor authentication, complex passwords, and ensuring your software is up-to-date to improve cyber security.
Unusual incidents or reports of cyber crimes can be reported to the Cyber Command team by emailing cybercommand@omes.ok.gov, and reports to the FBI can be submitted at ic3.gov.
For more information on improving cyber security, click here. | 2022-02-26T08:42:38Z | www.news9.com | U.S. Officials Warn Of Possible Russian Cyber Attacks, Oklahoma Cybersecurity Expert Weighs In News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/6219a4cfc331cc0726df8476/us-officials-warn-of-possible-russian-cyber-attacks-oklahoma-cybersecurity-expert-weighs-in- | https://www.news9.com/story/6219a4cfc331cc0726df8476/us-officials-warn-of-possible-russian-cyber-attacks-oklahoma-cybersecurity-expert-weighs-in- |
The Oklahoma County Detention Center said one of its detainees died Saturday morning.
Jail officials said a detention officer discovered 27-year-old Andrew Avelar unresponsive in his cell just before 4 a.m.
The officer called for staff and medical personnel to perform live-saving efforts on Avelar before he was transported to a nearby hospital.
Avelar was pronounced dead just before 5 a.m.
He was booked into the jail Jan. 31.
According to the jail's initial investigation, it appeared Avelar made a suicide attempt in his cell. The State Medical Examiner's Office will make a final determination of Avelar's cause of death. | 2022-02-26T22:51:21Z | www.news9.com | Oklahoma County Detention Center Says Detainee Found Dead In Cell News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621a4fee6218b1072d2b59bc/oklahoma-county-detention-center-says-detainee-found-dead-in-cell | https://www.news9.com/story/621a4fee6218b1072d2b59bc/oklahoma-county-detention-center-says-detainee-found-dead-in-cell |
The near-freezing temperatures may be a boost from colder conditions earlier this week in central Oklahoma, but travel can still be hazardous in some places.
A lot of main roads have been paved, but some secondary roads and parking lots that haven’t been deiced as of yet.
Oklahoma City’s highs will hover in the upper 30s while portions of western Oklahoma will reach into the low 40s.
Lows tonight in OKC will hang around 25, but the warmup is expected for Sunday. Most of the state will be above 50 degrees. | 2022-02-26T22:51:46Z | www.news9.com | Some Roads Remain Slippery As Near Freezing Temperatures Continue News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621a82543cce76072e52569d/some-roads-remain-slippery-as-near-freezing-temperatures-continue | https://www.news9.com/story/621a82543cce76072e52569d/some-roads-remain-slippery-as-near-freezing-temperatures-continue |
Supporters gathered to call for an end to the war at the Oklahoma Capitol on Saturday.
Folks showed their pride for the people of Ukraine and for President Zelensky.
"He was offered a chance to evacuate. He's standing there, standing up for freedom, standing up for democracy, and standing up for the same values that every one of us here holds dear," Francis Frost, a Ukraine supporter said.
Supporters said the U.S. government can send help to Ukrainians without sending boots on the ground. | 2022-02-27T05:56:41Z | www.news9.com | Supporters Of Ukraine Rally At Oklahoma State Capitol News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621ace98c2f5ee0728b4b7b7/supporters-of-ukraine-rally-at-oklahoma-state-capitol | https://www.news9.com/story/621ace98c2f5ee0728b4b7b7/supporters-of-ukraine-rally-at-oklahoma-state-capitol |
Black Rower & Author Shares His Passion For The Sport With Riversport OKC
Arshay Cooper said Riversport invited him to OKC to help promote diversity in watersport programs. He visited several schools and spoke to students about the different doors rowing opened him up to in his life.
“I had to tell stories that meant something to them. I had to demonstrate how tough it was for me growing up and how I broke through that,” Cooper said.
Cooper said rowing was a sport he never pictured himself doing as a kid. He said he went to school one day and there was a boat in his cafeteria with a sign-up list for the rowing team.
“I had no idea what rowing is. I don't even swim. It's not for Black people, you know, and the next day they were giving out pizza and I said I can check it out for pizza,” Cooper said.
With a slice of deep-dish pizza in one hand and a pen in the other, Cooper signed up and opened himself to a new world filled with opportunities.
“We were the first all-Black rowing team in the nineties and we made history. The rowing program came with entrepreneurship courses, so we took entrepreneurship classes. There was extra academic support. There was a strong college success program,” Cooper said.
Cooper said it gave him a brotherhood and he wanted others to experience it, so he started several rowing programs for low-income youth across the country. He also wrote a book that was adapted into a movie encouraging kids of all backgrounds to be part of the watersport community.
CLICK HERE to find out how you can find a copy of the book or to watch the film.
“It's a lot of barriers when it comes to rowing right, the cost. The boat is the same price as a Mercedes, some boats. Historically, in our communities, there's not a lot of access to swimming and pools because of a lot of structural limitations, so swimming is a huge barrier. I would say transportation, (too). The water is not near our communities,” Cooper said.
Cooper encourages students to break through those barriers. He said they'd be shocked to see what's waiting on the other side. | 2022-02-27T05:56:47Z | www.news9.com | Black Rower, Author Shares His Passion For The Sport With Riversport OKC News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621ad0c858a3060729ca7592/black-rower-author-shares-his-passion-for-the-sport-with-riversport-okc | https://www.news9.com/story/621ad0c858a3060729ca7592/black-rower-author-shares-his-passion-for-the-sport-with-riversport-okc |
The Ebenezer Baptist Church is hosting a Black History Month exhibition this weekend.
"All of the pieces were provided by the Black Liberated Arts Center. The presentation includes authentic African Artifacts, photos and scrapbooks filled with newspaper clippings that share Oklahoma City’s Black history. Most people think when they come into our office that they’re in a museum. They think it’s a history museum, they believe it’s an art museum as well," said Anita Arnold, Black Liberated Arts Center Executive Director.
You can visit the exhibit tomorrow during Ebenezer’s Black history month celebration at 10 a.m. | 2022-02-27T05:57:00Z | www.news9.com | Ebenezer Baptist Church Hosts Black History Month Art Exhibit News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621ad5d7510d1d01578cf731/ebenezer-baptist-church-hosts-black-history-month-art-exhibit | https://www.news9.com/story/621ad5d7510d1d01578cf731/ebenezer-baptist-church-hosts-black-history-month-art-exhibit |
A trucker convoy protesting COVID-19 mandates made its way through Oklahoma Sunday.
The Peoples' Convoy garnered attention on overpasses along the Kilpatrick Turnpike, as hundreds flew flags and banners.
It's a journey that began earlier in the week, with hundreds of truckers and other workers making their way across the country. Their message is to re-open the country after COVID-19 caused several restrictions for workers over the last two years.
"I've got friends that are on the verge of losing their job or have already lost their job," said Rob Anderson, a resident.
The People's Convoy said it's time to lift all mandates for workers and to end the state of emergency as they believe the pandemic is well in-hand now.
The drivers left California Wednesday morning and Sunday went through Oklahoma City and stopped in Vanita that same night.
"It's nice to just see people come out and express their political opinions one way or another, express their first amendment right," said Isaac Andersen, a resident.
Their goal is to arrive in Washington D.C. by next Saturday before the state of the union address. The convoy will travel through eight different states by the end of their eleven-day journey.
"People have been unaware and uninvolved for way too long," said Casey Weddle, a resident. "I think it's time for people to get aware and to get involved to effect real change."
Just a few weeks ago, President Biden issued a statement saying he will continue the emergency declaration on COVID-19 beyond March 1st.
News 9's Hunter McKee was live at 5:30 p.m. with reactions from those who were there this morning and will have more to this story tonight at 10 p.m.
Related Story: Protesters With Truck Convoy To Pass Through Oklahoma Sunday | 2022-02-28T04:20:06Z | www.news9.com | Trucker Convoy Passes Through Oklahoma On Cross-Country Journey News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621c10a87cec5c072668851f/trucker-convoy-passes-through-oklahoma-on-crosscountry-journey | https://www.news9.com/story/621c10a87cec5c072668851f/trucker-convoy-passes-through-oklahoma-on-crosscountry-journey |
Fire crews worked to put out a church fire in Southwest Oklahoma City on Sunday. This was at the Community of Christ Church near Southwest 70th and Western.
Crews said the fire started around 4 a.m., and they worked to put out the hot spots throughout the morning.
No one was hurt, and investigators are working to find the cause of the fire. | 2022-02-28T04:20:12Z | www.news9.com | Crews Work To Put Out Fire At SW OKC Church News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621c120fdb1a07019394a203/crews-work-to-put-out-fire-at-sw-okc-church | https://www.news9.com/story/621c120fdb1a07019394a203/crews-work-to-put-out-fire-at-sw-okc-church |
Police in Shawnee say a man is barricaded inside a building across the street from city hall.
Police have the building located on 9th Street between Beard and Broadway surrounded.
Residents of the area have reported hearing shots fired, but authorities would not confirm or deny this information.
Residents are asked to keep away from the area. | 2022-02-28T10:36:01Z | www.news9.com | Shawnee Authorities Surround Building With Man Barricaded Inside News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621c4cd8fd0637072749dd7a/shawnee-authorities-surround-building-with-man-barricaded-inside | https://www.news9.com/story/621c4cd8fd0637072749dd7a/shawnee-authorities-surround-building-with-man-barricaded-inside |
A district attorney from Oklahoma is under investigation for his office finances.
According to the Oklahoman, Allan Grubb, District attorney for Pottawatomie and Lincoln counties made deals with offenders declining to file charges in exchange for a fee. Grubbs called the allegations "wildly incorrect" on Sunday. Oklahoma County DA David Prater confirms he's requested an audit of Grubb's finances.
OSBI could not confirm or deny an investigation into Grubb’s office.
We’ll continue to follow this story. | 2022-02-28T10:36:13Z | www.news9.com | Oklahoma DA Under Investigation For Office Finances News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621c585afd063707274b45d1/oklahoma-da-under-investigation-for-office-finances | https://www.news9.com/story/621c585afd063707274b45d1/oklahoma-da-under-investigation-for-office-finances |
A man in Shawnee barricaded himself inside a building and refused to come out for hours Monday night.
Some Shawnee residents got an alert from the city asking them to avoid the area of 10th Street between Market and Beard while the situation developed.
Vivian Lozano of Shawnee Police Department says this started with an emergency call from someone saying they smelled smoke at an apartment complex.
"Officers attempted to make contact with him and he wouldn't open the door, he wouldn't let the officers in, and he just ended up barricading himself in the apartment."
That is when the SWAT team had to be called out to the scene.
With the help of a negotiator, they were eventually able to get the suspect to come out.
Residents close by reported they heard gunshots, but police did not confirm that.
Police said no one was hurt during this situation and so far no charges have been filed.
The man was taken to the hospital for a mental evaluation.
News 9 will give updates on this story as more information becomes available. | 2022-02-28T23:55:00Z | www.news9.com | Overnight Standoff In Shawnee Ends With Man In Custody News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621cc2287c0b09071cbc7649/overnight-standoff-in-shawnee-ends-with-man-in-custody | https://www.news9.com/story/621cc2287c0b09071cbc7649/overnight-standoff-in-shawnee-ends-with-man-in-custody |
The federal trial over Oklahoma's execution protocol begins Monday.
This case questions the three-drug cocktail our state uses for lethal injections.
The trial will start at the federal courthouse at 9 a.m. Monday morning and it's expected to go for a full five days, however that could change.
This will be a bench trial, meaning there is no jury, and the judge will have the final decision.
More than 30 Oklahoma Death Row prisoners filed the lawsuit, saying that the state's current three-drug cocktail is unconstitutional.
One drug that will be highlighted in this trial is Midazolam, which is given during the first step of the execution protocols as an anesthetic.
Filed first in 2014, this lawsuit has taken a top priority since the state lifted its six-year moratorium on executions last October.
John Grant was the first inmate put to death when executions resumed.
Witnesses say he started convulsing nearly two dozen times and vomited after getting the drug.
The state disputed that claim, saying everything went according to plan.
Four inmates have been executed since then.
News 9s Ashley Holden and Storme Jones will have team coverage of the trial.
Stick with News 9 for any updates. | 2022-02-28T23:55:31Z | www.news9.com | Federal Trial Begins Over Oklahoma's Execution Protocol News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621cccecab01780726642be4/federal-trial-begins-over-oklahomas-execution-protocol | https://www.news9.com/story/621cccecab01780726642be4/federal-trial-begins-over-oklahomas-execution-protocol |
This upcoming Sunday marks two years since the first case of COVID-19 was confirmed in Oklahoma.
We will be taking you on a week-long journey about just how far we've come as a state and what's next.
"If we could have predicted on that day when the first case of Oklahoma was announced. We would be telling people potentially there was going to be 1328 cases every single day, and 20 Oklahomans are going to die every day for the next two years," said Dr. Dale Bratzler with OU Health.
This virus has taken Oklahoma by storm as we're about to enter the third year fighting it.
Dr. Bratzler says he believes if we could've known what COVID would be like, it would have changed the outcome.
"I remember when we had meetings about three positive cases a day, and we were feeling so good, and our conversation was about dropping mitigation," said Dr. Bratzler.
This past year of 2021, we welcomed vaccinations into our prevention strategies, leaving many health officials to believe that was the answer until the Delta and Omicron variants slammed into the public.
Now, as many believe we are past the worst of it, the state still sees more than 1000 cases a day.
To break down those numbers even more, for every 24 reported cases, one person is hospitalized and for every 70 reported cases, one death occurs.
Dr. Bratzler says while we might be entering what people think is an endemic phase, it's difficult to know fully what that means.
"COVID-19 is not going away, and we are going to continue to see patients getting affected, and we are going to see small outbreaks," said Dr. Bratzler.
The conversation now two years later is how do we roll back on those mitigation strategies that were put into place. | 2022-03-01T06:36:32Z | www.news9.com | OU Health Official Speaks On Upcoming Anniversary Of Oklahoma’s First COVID-19 Case News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621cedb7ed7a1a07243308f8/ou-health-official-speaks-on%C2%A0upcoming-anniversary-of-oklahomas-first-covid19-case | https://www.news9.com/story/621cedb7ed7a1a07243308f8/ou-health-official-speaks-on%C2%A0upcoming-anniversary-of-oklahomas-first-covid19-case |
The league says the Bucs will host the inaugural game in Munich next season but their opponents and the date for the game have yet to be announced.
The Packers and the New Orleans Saints are the designated home teams for two games at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London.
The Jacksonville Jaguars will host a game at Wembley Stadium. The Arizona Cardinals will play a game at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
Associated Press The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will play in the NFL’s first regular-season game in Germany this year and the Green Bay Packers are traveling abroad for the first time. | 2022-03-01T06:38:12Z | www.news9.com | Bucs To Play In Germany, Packers In London This Year News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621d37baa965c9018206a731/bucs-to-play-in-germany-packers-in-london-this-year | https://www.news9.com/story/621d37baa965c9018206a731/bucs-to-play-in-germany-packers-in-london-this-year |
Oklahoma Blood Institute is teaming up with two Oklahoma attractions to help boost the blood supply this spring.
Those who donate blood with Oklahoma Blood Institute in March will receive a free t-shirt and their choice of one free entry to the Oklahoma City Zoo or the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Tickets may be used throughout the remainder of the year.
March is historically a challenging month for blood donations as many people are busy traveling for spring break and enjoying the warmer weather. Unfortunately, these factors have a negative impact on the blood supply. OBI needs 1,200 donors a day to maintain an adequate blood supply.
“We take our role as the community blood provider very seriously,” said Dr. John Armitage, president and CEO of Oklahoma Blood Institute. “Our blood supply is an essential part of our health care system, so we’re extremely thankful for partners like the OKC Zoo and the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum for their partnership in helping ensure we have a healthy blood supply for patients in need.”
Anyone who is healthy and 16 years old* or older can give blood. Donation typically takes only about an hour, and one donation saves up to three lives. Appointments to donate can be made online at obi.org or by calling 877-340-8777. Walk-ins are also welcome.
News 9 Oklahoma Blood Institute is teaming up with two Oklahoma attractions to help boost the blood supply this spring. | 2022-03-01T06:38:24Z | www.news9.com | OBI Teams Up With 2 OKC Attractions To Boost Blood Supply News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621d3df2a965c9018207693d/obi-teams-up-with-2-okc-attractions-to-boost-blood-supply | https://www.news9.com/story/621d3df2a965c9018207693d/obi-teams-up-with-2-okc-attractions-to-boost-blood-supply |
Officials with the Oklahoma County Detention Center have confirmed an inmate has died and there is now an investigation. This is the fourth death from inside the jail this year.
Just before 4 a.m. Saturday, jail officials said an officer was going through his rounds when he spotted 27-year-old Andrew Avelar unconscious in his cell. Avelar's mom and dad tell News 9 they spoke to him not long before he was found by jail staff and say it doesn’t add up to why and how he’s now gone.
"That just doesn’t make sense and all of a sudden you’re getting a call Saturday morning that your son passed away," said Rudy Avelar, his father. "It’s a little too hard to swallow."
Officials with the detention center said their initial investigation shows Avelar was attempting suicide. However, his dad says he sounded positive the last time they spoke.
"Not to be in this place 26 days and to commit suicide, it’s unheard of," said Avelar.
Avelar was booked into the jail on January 31st.
The Detention Center sent us a statement saying in part:
“As with all significant incidents the special investigative unit will conduct a thorough investigation. They will gather the facts of the case by reviewing cameras, interviewing staff and detainees and determine if procedures and policies were followed..”
"We’re just lost and we’re wanting answers," said Avelar. "We’re hoping that this will draw a little more attention, maybe put a little obligation on them for the little wrongdoing that they have."
The State Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the official cause of death. | 2022-03-01T06:39:19Z | www.news9.com | Family & Friends Speak Out After 4th Death At OCDC This Year News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621d69140a3bed0731f56d1d/family--friends-speak-out-after-4th-death-at-ocdc-this-year | https://www.news9.com/story/621d69140a3bed0731f56d1d/family--friends-speak-out-after-4th-death-at-ocdc-this-year |
At the Capitol Monday, Senate unanimously passed a resolution in support of the embattled country of Ukraine.
A group from St. Mary’s Orthodox Church in Jones receive a standing ovation today after Resolution 27 passed.
“Every Ukrainian has lost track of days. if you ask the Ukrainian, what day is it today, they will say, ‘it is the fifth day of war.’ It's very emotional. we are here together to ask for some support,” said Andriy Yabluchamskiy, a Ukrainian-American member of the church.
Church leaders are calling for prayers — and others want NATO to declare a no-fly zone over the airspace in Ukraine, as the country comes under heavy bombing.
The resolution notes the long local history of Ukrainian immigrants — “By the end of the 20th century, Ukrainian names could be found among doctors, lawyers, teachers, journalists, and other professionals in Oklahoma.”
“The same thing, the determination, that you see in the people of Ukraine to defend their homeland, helped build the state of Oklahoma, said Senator Greg Treat (R-Oklahoma City).
This moment of unity in the senate is followed by a week of packed committee schedules as lawmakers push to make sure their measures are heard before the deadline on Thursday.
One of the top issues this session — Senator Treat’s Oklahoma Empowerment Act — is on the agenda during Wednesday’s Budget and Appropriations meeting.
Concerns about the bill’s impact on public schools across the state have drawn bi-partisan resistance, even as the author says he is trying to mitigate that issue through budget and policy adjustments.
“The state aid formula is what I've identified as a good funding source. I’m committed to putting more money in the state aid formula, I don’t want any negative effect on traditional public schools,” Treat said.
Senate democrats are pushing to get their priorities on an agenda before Thursday’s cut-off.
“I think what’s a little disheartening is that we’ve spent a lot of time hearing politically charged issues, a lot of legislation that has gone through committee has been really divisive in nature. So unfortunately, bills that the Senate democrats are running have not gotten that hearing,” said Senator Carri Hicks (D-Oklahoma City). | 2022-03-01T06:39:25Z | www.news9.com | State Senate Passes Resolution On Ukraine Ahead Of Big Week At The Capitol News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621d69f50a3bed0731f5894a/state-senate-passes-resolution-on-ukraine-ahead-of-big-week-at-the-capitol | https://www.news9.com/story/621d69f50a3bed0731f5894a/state-senate-passes-resolution-on-ukraine-ahead-of-big-week-at-the-capitol |
Food insecurity is real, even on college campuses, but at the University of Oklahoma they’re tackling this problem through their food pantry.
“And it’s real. Hunger is real. Oklahoma is one of the hungriest states in our nation,” said Matt Mark, coordinator for OU’s food pantry.
The pantry opened in March of 2017 to serve students, staff and faculty.
“In the first semester we had about twenty or thirty. A couple of years later we’re at sixty or seventy. Before covid we had one hundred and twenty and just last year, before thanksgiving we had one hundred and eighty,” said Mark.
Basile is here from Fance and says the pantry has really been helpful to him being so far from home
“Because I know for like international students we don’t have as much money as American people do because we don’t have family close to us,” said OU student Basile Ertaush.
His go to item from the pantry?
“I would say like the mac and cheese because, sometimes, I’m sometimes too lazy to at Crest and Walmart, and I’m like always eating it the first day I get my stuff,” said Ertaush.
It’s about a fifty-fifty split between OU staff and students that receive from the pantry.
“She brought that cereal home, her grandson opened the pantry door and got really excited that they have cereal. And for a lot of people, a box of cereal is a box of cereal but for some that’s a main source of food for that day, a couple of days,” said Mark.
Orders are submitted for available items online, and volunteers come in and fill the orders, packed and ready for the recipients.
“I love being here at the university of Oklahoma and love doing what I’m doing and working with an incredible group of students cause they’re making it happen and we’re trying to do what we can,” said Mark.
The pantry receives many donations, including donations from students, however they can always use more. For a list of items or to contribute monetary donations visit their website. | 2022-03-01T06:39:31Z | www.news9.com | OU Food Pantry Helping Students and Staff News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621d6aad0a3bed0731f5a401/ou-food-pantry-helping-students-and-staff- | https://www.news9.com/story/621d6aad0a3bed0731f5a401/ou-food-pantry-helping-students-and-staff- |
The war, and stories like that compelling people across the country to act in solidarity with Ukraine. In some cases, that means taking liquor off the shelves.
Stoli is a vodka that originated in Russia back in 1901 before moving their headquarters to Luxembourg. The Owners of Uncorked Wine and Spirits in Shawnee said regardless, they are taking it off their shelf.
“This is America, you are entitled to eat and drink anything you want to. If you want Russian vodka, you are just going to have to buy it somewhere else because we are not going to sell it to you,” said Terry Compton, one of the Owners of Uncorked Wine and Spirits.
“It’s been a relatively pervasive movement throughout the liquor industry throughout the country from coast to coast everyone is taking the Russian liquor off the shelf,” he said.
He said the move was prompted by Russia’s attack on Ukraine.
“It is technically finalized in Latvia but the wheat and the initial distilled product, spirits come from Russia to Latvia where it is finished so you are still buying a Russian product,” said the Owner.
If you go onto the Stoli website, it says it denounces Russian Aggression saying they “unequivocally condemn the military action in Ukraine.”
“I don’t care if it is one single grain of wheat that goes into their production, if it is from Russia, we are not going to buy it,” said Compton.
The store only has a few bottles left but has no plans to sell them.
“We still have some if somebody wants it that bad, they can ask for it and I’ll sell it to them for about $1,000 a bottle,” he said.
Instead, the store is introducing a new vodka from Ukraine.
“We have located a vodka that from Ukraine it is khor and we will have that in stock on Thursday, and we will put those in the empty holes where the Russian vodkas were,” said the Owner.
Compton said he will never sell Stoli again. | 2022-03-01T20:38:45Z | www.news9.com | Shawnee Liquor Store Takes Russian-Themed Vodka Off Shelf Amid War In Ukraine News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621da0b70a3bed0731fb349a/shawnee-liquor-store-takes-russianthemed-vodka-off-shelf-amid-war-in-ukraine | https://www.news9.com/story/621da0b70a3bed0731fb349a/shawnee-liquor-store-takes-russianthemed-vodka-off-shelf-amid-war-in-ukraine |
Five years ago, News 9 shared the story of the Oklahoma priest who made the ultimate sacrifice in Guatemala more than fifty years ago. In Wednesday’s 10pm newscast, see a new shrine being built in his honor here in Oklahoma. This location will offer reflection and more. Learn about plans for the large campus. | 2022-03-01T20:40:58Z | www.news9.com | Wednesday At 10: Shrine Of The Blessed Stanley Rother News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621e5ce0fd8d42072cbbdf0d/wednesday-at-10:-shrine-of-the-blessed-stanley-rother | https://www.news9.com/story/621e5ce0fd8d42072cbbdf0d/wednesday-at-10:-shrine-of-the-blessed-stanley-rother |
It ranges from local activists like the Florida Freedom to Read Project, founded by two mothers living in Orange County, to a lawsuit filed in Missouri by the American Civil Liberties Union aimed at preventing districts from banning books like “Gender Queer” and “The Bluest Eye.”
A national group opposed to what it calls a “Leftist agenda” for public schools says the goal isn't to remove books entirely, but to get some titles it alleges are pornographic off K-12 school shelves. | 2022-03-02T03:44:19Z | www.news9.com | Activism Grows Nationwide In Response To School Book Bans News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621e7e7c4b60b3072bf08650/activism-grows-nationwide-in-response-to-school-book-bans | https://www.news9.com/story/621e7e7c4b60b3072bf08650/activism-grows-nationwide-in-response-to-school-book-bans |
The report warns of intensifying storms, wildfires and other weather extremes across the U.S., Canada and Mexico without urgent, coordinated action to slow global warming.
And it says low-income and minority populations will be hardest hit. During last summer's heat wave in the Pacific Northwest, none of those who died in Portland had central air conditioning and 10% lived in mobile homes. | 2022-03-02T03:44:25Z | www.news9.com | Heat Wave A Glimpse Of Climate Change's Impact In N. America News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621e7f324b60b3072bf0967e/heat-wave-a-glimpse-of-climate-changes-impact-in-n-america | https://www.news9.com/story/621e7f324b60b3072bf0967e/heat-wave-a-glimpse-of-climate-changes-impact-in-n-america |
Tens of thousands of people have been ordered to evacuate their homes and hundreds of thousands more have been told to prepare to flee as parts of Australia’s southeast coast are inundated by the worst flooding in more than a decade.
The flooding has claimed at least 10 lives. Scores of residents spent hours trapped on their roofs by a fast-rising river in a town in northern New South Wales state.
The state government says 40,000 people have been ordered to evacuate. In Brisbane, a meteorologist measured more than 37 inches of rain in three days. He says that's close to 80% of the annual rainfall average. | 2022-03-02T03:44:31Z | www.news9.com | Thousands Evacuate In Worst Australian Floods In A Decade News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621e7ffb7b2f04072b78f459/thousands-evacuate-in-worst-australian-floods-in-a-decade | https://www.news9.com/story/621e7ffb7b2f04072b78f459/thousands-evacuate-in-worst-australian-floods-in-a-decade |
Oklahoma City’s ward boundaries will shift this spring in a once-in-a-decade requirement to rebalance the population in OKC’s eight wards as a result of population growth.
A proposed ward map, viewable at okc.gov/redistricting, was introduced by City staff during Tuesday’s City Council meeting. The proposed map takes into account public input received in January and February.
A public hearing to get feedback on the proposed map will be held during the March 15 City Council meeting. If there are no changes, the new ward map will be adopted on March 29 and take effect on April 1.
The ward boundary changes, called redistricting, is a requirement of both federal law and City Charter following the release of the U.S. Decennial Census. According to the 2020 Census, the population in Oklahoma City climbed from 579,999 in 2010 to 681,054 in 2020. Higher rates of growth on the north and west sides (wards 1, 3 and 8) spurred the need to rebalance the population. The target population set for each ward based on the Census data is 85,132.
Oklahoma City was last redistricted in 2011. A current ward map can be viewed at https://www.okc.gov/residents/ward-map.
Criteria used to redistrict
City Council members passed a resolution on Sept. 28, 2021, approving the following redistricting criteria. Boundaries must:
Be balanced to +/- 2 percent of the average ward population
Be contiguous and as compact as possible
Not unseat current councilmembers
Other recommended criteria include not breaking up established neighborhoods and business districts as well as using highways, major roads and natural borders as ward boundaries.
“We worked hard to balance the population in each ward within 2 percent while still meeting the contiguous and compact requirements,” said Assistant City Manager Kenton Tsoodle. “It was important to us to keep neighborhoods together and we were largely successful in doing that.”
Public Input considered
Residents were invited to learn more about the redistricting process, ask questions and provide input by submitting comments through an online form, attending a virtual town hall meeting on Jan. 24, meeting one-on-one with staff on Jan. 27 and by emailing questions or comments to public.information@okc.gov.
In Oklahoma City, City Council wards must be redrawn every ten years following the U.S. Census, so each district is balanced in population. Redistricting determines which neighborhoods are grouped into wards. Each ward is represented by an elected Councilperson that serves a four-year term. Redistricting is important because it ensures each city council member represents about the same number of constituents.
Oklahoma City is nonpartisan and operates under a Council-Manager form of government.
News 9 Oklahoma City’s ward boundaries will shift this spring in a once-in-a-decade requirement to rebalance the population in OKC’s eight wards as a result of population growth. | 2022-03-02T03:44:50Z | www.news9.com | City Council Considers Proposed Ward Map As Redistricting Process Moves Forward News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621e89ae52ae1f075dffb7f3/city-council-considers-proposed-ward-map-as-redistricting-process-moves-forward | https://www.news9.com/story/621e89ae52ae1f075dffb7f3/city-council-considers-proposed-ward-map-as-redistricting-process-moves-forward |
The league has threatened to cancel opening day on March 31 without a deal by then. Commissioner Rob Manfred was expected to speak around 5 p.m. about the situation.
The union convened a call of its player representatives after receiving MLB’s offer.
Associated Press Players have repeatedly cautioned that significant differences remained in key economic areas, and MLB’s proposal did not close that gap in their eyes. | 2022-03-02T03:45:02Z | www.news9.com | Union Rejects MLB's Last Offer At Deadline To Cancel Games News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621e97be52ae1f075d018ebf/union-rejects-mlbs-last-offer-at-deadline-to-cancel-games | https://www.news9.com/story/621e97be52ae1f075d018ebf/union-rejects-mlbs-last-offer-at-deadline-to-cancel-games |
Yukon police are investigating a deadly home invasion over the weekend. Police said the 23-year-old man who died on Sunday was the shooter's ex-boyfriend and the two had been broken up for a few weeks.
Police were called just after 4 a.m. to a home near Cornwell Drive and Main Street.
Dispatch: “Shots fired, RP advising that her ex-boyfriend broke into her house, and she shot him. As far as I know he is conscious and breathing. Gun is going to be on the table and put away.”
According to scanner traffic, the woman was on the front porch when police got to her home and Boyd Jones was on the kitchen floor. Police said Jones showed up unannounced to his ex-girlfriend's home, where he once lived. Boyd was apparently upset over text messages the two exchanged the day before.
“Boyd Jones had tried to knock on the door trying to get her to answer the door of her home,” said Deputy Chief John Brown, Yukon Police Department. “When he was unsuccessful in that, he broke in through the front window and confronted her inside her own home.”
The woman told police that Boyd physically attacked her and threw her to the floor.
“It took several times when he attacked her before she finally felt threatened enough that she used the handgun,” said Brown.
The ex-girlfriend told officers she shot Boyd once in the stomach. He was taken by EMSA to a local hospital where he died.
“Any type of domestic violence situation we don’t condone that type of behavior and violence,” said Brown. “But we do understand any loss of life is tragic.”
No one has been arrested. Police said they will turn their investigation over to the Canadian County District Attorney’s office. The DA will decide if it was a justified shooting. | 2022-03-02T03:45:09Z | www.news9.com | Yukon Woman Shoots, Kills Ex-Boyfriend During Alleged Break-In News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621ea150ee3ecb0715198f47/yukon-woman-shoots-kills-exboyfriend-during-alleged-breakin | https://www.news9.com/story/621ea150ee3ecb0715198f47/yukon-woman-shoots-kills-exboyfriend-during-alleged-breakin |
The way Oklahoma City police officers do their jobs could soon change.
Tuesday, a private consulting company, hired by the city, presented nearly 40 new recommendations to City Council.
OKC's City Council called for the report in the wake of officer involved shootings. Oklahoma City is number two in the nation for the highest number of police killings per capita.
At the meeting, council members voted to accept the findings to see which of the 39 recommendations will be implemented.
"Our demand is continually stop killing us. With the OCPD, I've said it before, they make it seem like no lives matter. Not even their own," said activist T. Sheri Dickerson.
At Tuesday's city Council meeting a woman read the names of people who died at the hands of OCPD from 2018 through 2021. It's a display of the mistrust between Oklahoma City police officers and the people they are supposed to serve and protect.
"I've had several encounters with the police before. I've had guns pulled on me before, at age 5. Young you know." said another community member during the public comment portion.
These types of stories and accounts are the reason the city brought in the Chicago consulting group 21CP. The group ran an 18-month study on the department.
They surveyed 1,600 homes; 94% agreed the department needed change, and that cops shouldn't be the catch-all for every issue.
"You have a lot going on that has traditionally defaulted to the police," explained 21CP's Brian Maxey. He continued, "mental health, youth engagement, persons in crisis all fall to the police department. Instead of thinking who can we send other than the police, it's who can we send that will best resolve this for the benefit of all involved."
There are 39 recommendations all together. They surround the topics like law enforcement de-escalation policy, police accountability to the community, training in crisis response, alternative response to mental health calls, police and youth outreach, a neighborhood safety and violence interruption program, police access to mental health, and homeless outreach.
Tuesday's vote just accepts the recommendations, not all have to be implemented. Some can also be implemented immediately. Others, like use of force, will have to be voted on by the council.
"Formal recommendations are rooted in what the community said they desire and what their needs are therefore we should take those as valid," said Hannah Royce. She added, "Community oversight from the impacted communities. Those people know what is needed the most."
The motion to accept the recommendations passed eight to one.
You can read the full 21CP report by clicking here. | 2022-03-02T03:45:21Z | www.news9.com | Consulting Group Presents OKC City Council With Recommendations To Improve Policing News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621ea3b9507f160725decb61/consulting-group-presents-okc-city-council-with-recommendations-to-improve-policing | https://www.news9.com/story/621ea3b9507f160725decb61/consulting-group-presents-okc-city-council-with-recommendations-to-improve-policing |
SPENCER, Oklahoma -
We're learning new details after a toddler was mauled by a pit-bull in Spencer. Investigators say the child wandered into the neighbors' backyard, just moments before the brutal attack.
During an update from Oklahoma County Sheriff Tommie Johnson Tuesday morning, he said after one-year-old J.J. Rodriguez walked into the yard, that neighbor heard a noise and when he opened the door, the dog ran out and attacked the boy.
"Attacked a little baby that was playing in his front yard on a beautiful day that they were just being children," said Delfina Wright, J.J.'s grandmother.
Rodriguez was transported to OU Children's Hospital in critical condition.
Investigators say when the dog owner opened the door, four other dogs got out as well, but they're still unsure if those other dogs joined in on the attack or not. They've learned that Rodriguez was not being watched by an adult at the time and both the dog owner and Rodriguez's family could face charges.
"We have to make sure we're watching our kids and what they're getting into, to protect them," said Johnson "Then as dog owners, we have to make sure that we are responsible pet owners and that we have a fence that they can be contained."
The Sheriff's department confirms there have been at least four calls in the last two years regarding loose dogs coming from the dog owner's property. Spencer city code says residents are not allowed to have pit-bulls, even if it's a mixed breed, but the sheriff's department says that is not part of their investigation.
News 9 spoke to the dog owner, and she says the pit-bull has never shown signs of aggression before.
"He was a very good dog," said Angel Gray. "He sits, he shakes, he sleeps in the bed with my seven-year-old."
As for Rodriguez, investigators say they spoke to his family who said his health is improving. He still has his eyesight and did recognize his parents. | 2022-03-02T03:45:33Z | www.news9.com | Investigators Provide Update After Child Mauled By Dog In Spencer News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621eaa94ee3ecb07151accbd/investigators-provide-update-after-child-mauled-by-dog-in-spencer | https://www.news9.com/story/621eaa94ee3ecb07151accbd/investigators-provide-update-after-child-mauled-by-dog-in-spencer |
Oklahoma regulators are counting down the days until the launch of a seed-to-sale system, which was held up for nearly 10 months by a class-action lawsuit that claimed it created a monopoly.
The seed-to-sale system is designed to track marijuana plants and products from when they’re planted through the sale. The state contracted Metrc, a Florida-based company, to operate the system.
Last year, Okmulgee County business Dr. Z Leaf Cultivation and Attorney Ronald Durbin filed a class-action lawsuit against the state over its exclusive contract with Metrc, claiming it created a monopoly and an unfair burden on businesses.
An Okmulgee County district judge issued a temporary restraining order on April 29, 2021, blocking the state from starting the Metrc program
“Clearly the math these days weighs in favor of getting a seed-to-sale in place,” Durbin said.
On Friday, Durbin and the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority agreed to a partial settlement that allows the rollout of the seed-to-sale system to become the standard for all licensed businesses starting May 26.
Click here for more information from the OMMA.
“We are so excited to have it,” said OMMA Director Adria Berry. She said the program will be a significant tool in the state’s effort to clamp down on illegal growers, and to ensure the more than 12,000 licensed businesses are following state laws.
“All of the other medical marijuana programs across the U.S. have some sort of track-and-trace or seed-to-sale system. I look forward to us being on an even playing field and having a much better idea of how much product is across the state.”
Related: Wild West Of Weed: Oklahoma Struggles To Regulate Booming Medical Marijuana Industry
The settlement comes with conditions for the rollout.
The OMMA agreed to hold at least five online seminars to educate license holders on how to become compliant in the system. The agency all so “will ensure adequate call staff is retained to be reasonably responsive to questions licensees might have about program implementation,” according to the court order signed by Oklahoma County District Judge Natalie Mai.
Durbin said he is prepared to accuse the state of civil contempt if the conditions are not met.
“We’re going to hold their feet to the fire. I hope it never comes to it, but we’re going to get those educational classes,” Durbin said. | 2022-03-02T18:32:39Z | www.news9.com | Oklahoma To Launch Marijuana Tracking System After Settlement In Lawsuit News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621ebd71507f160725e24c83/oklahoma-to-launch-marijuana-tracking-system-after-settlement-in-lawsuit-- | https://www.news9.com/story/621ebd71507f160725e24c83/oklahoma-to-launch-marijuana-tracking-system-after-settlement-in-lawsuit-- |
Oklahoma Lawmakers Respond To President Biden's State Of The Union
The Oklahoma delegation in Washington is reacting after President Biden's State of the Union.
Many of them have opinions about Biden opening his speech on Ukraine.
Some were pleased that the issue united both parties, while others wish the President would do more to condemn Russia.
Republican Representative Tom Cole says he's encouraged by Biden's commitment for additional aid to Ukraine.
However, he also wishes Biden would take the opportunity to make America energy independent.
Outgoing Republican Senator Jim Inhofe believes the Biden administration wasn't ready for Russia's invasion of Ukraine, saying in part,
"We can no longer afford to drag our feet in acting to support Ukraine. "
Republican Senator James Lankford went to social media Tuesday night, where he said he's encouraged by the President starting his speech on Ukraine, but also pushing for the US to become more energy independent.
"What we really need to do and what he wouldn’t talk about tonight is actually put pressure on Russia by increasing Oklahoma and American oil and gas production to be able to send to Europe. You want to be able to hurt Russia long-term, you’ve got to be able to cut off their customers," he said.
On Ukraine, Republican Representative Frank Lucas says he's sincerely rooting for President Biden's and Congress' success. However, he believes the issue does not stop with Ukraine and that America needs to scale up its investment in basic research, science and innovation.
Republican Congressman Kevin Hern was critical of the President's speech, especially regarding Europe's energy needs and Russian imports.
"He talked about how he was going to sure up Europe's energy needs so they wouldn't depend on Russia. All while he's forgetting we are importing 600 thousand barrels a day in the US. And sending a check to Russia for $60 million a day," said Hern.
On the domestic side, nearly all of Oklahoma's lawmakers were critical of the President, especially regarding inflation. Blaming the rise in prices on the American Rescue Plan, which was the nearly $2 trillion COVID-19 stimulus package the President signed into law last year. | 2022-03-02T18:34:06Z | www.news9.com | Oklahoma Delegation Reacts To President Biden's State Of The Union News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621f6a9b21c7350158f56b65/oklahoma-delegation-reacts-to-president-bidens-state-of-the-union | https://www.news9.com/story/621f6a9b21c7350158f56b65/oklahoma-delegation-reacts-to-president-bidens-state-of-the-union |
Protestors To Rally Over No Second Chances Bill
Critics are planning to rally Wednesday against what they're calling the No Second Chances bill.
HB 3903 would prevent inmates sentenced to death, or life in prison, from seeking a reduced sentence.
It is authored by Representative John Pfeiffer (R).
Supporters are saying this bill protects victims' families, while those against it say sometimes the state gets it wrong and convicted inmates deserve the right to appeal.
In 2021, murder convict Julius Jones was the first death row inmate in state history to be allowed a commutation hearing.
The case got international attention and Gov. Kevin Stitt granted Jones' clemency just hours before his scheduled execution.
This bill would prevent something like that from happening again because the bill says there may be no claim on innocence,
"The measure provides that an inmate sentenced to death may only be considered for clemency when execution is imminent with an execution date pending and the Board may only consider for the reason of mercy or lenience. The Board may not hear a claim of actual innocence."
Reverend CeCe Jones was a leader in the Justice For Julius Campaign.
“HB 3903 is a direct effort to silence the truth that we now know; Oklahoma’s criminal justice system sometimes gets it wrong. Trying to prohibit the parole board from hearing cases with claims of innocence is outrageous and not in step with seeking justice,” said Rev. Cece Jones.
The Catholic bishops of Oklahoma said in a statement,
“This amendment only serves to punish the parole board for its recent clemency recommendations and does nothing to continue the state’s focus on prison reform that has been championed by both Republicans and Democrats,” said Most Rev. Paul S. Coakley, Archbishop of Oklahoma City and Most Rev. David A. Konderla, Bishop of Tulsa.
Numerous other groups have spoken out against the bill, including Conservatives concerned about the death penalty and League of Womens Voters Oklahoma.
On the other hand, Oklahoma Attorney General John Conner supports the proposed legislation, saying that it supports victims' families, promotes public safety and helps to preserve the role of the courts.
The bill says in part,
"The measure provides that the Pardon and Parole Board is not to recommend to the Governor any person who was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole or death."
Protestors say they will be here at the capitol Wednesday morning when the House Judiciary Criminal Committee hears this bill.
To read more about the legislation, click here. | 2022-03-02T18:34:18Z | www.news9.com | Criminal Justice Bill Faces Opposition As It Goes To Committee News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621f763a68ec4407274e6b8a/criminal-justice-bill-faces-opposition-as-it-goes-to-committee | https://www.news9.com/story/621f763a68ec4407274e6b8a/criminal-justice-bill-faces-opposition-as-it-goes-to-committee |
Associated Press Sketches of fantastic creatures by Dr. Seuss that have never before been published will see the light of day in new books being written and illustrated by an inclusive group of up-and-coming authors and artists, the company that owns the intellectual property rights to Dr. Seuss’ works announced Wednesday. | 2022-03-02T18:34:24Z | www.news9.com | New Dr. Seuss-Inspired Books To Feature Diverse Creators News 9 | https://www.news9.com/story/621f7ff421c7350158f8222b/new-dr-seussinspired-books-to-feature-diverse-creators | https://www.news9.com/story/621f7ff421c7350158f8222b/new-dr-seussinspired-books-to-feature-diverse-creators |
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