Controversial Death of Republican Candidate Barry Christian
The body of Republican state senate candidate Barry Christian was discovered in a truck speckled with bullets on April 30 in western Oklahoma. The Oklahoma State Office of the Chief Medical Examiner announced the cause of Christian’s death on Tuesday, but his family believes there are unresolved questions surrounding the incident.
“There are significant discrepancies in my father’s death that merit further scrutiny,” a family member expressed.
Christian, a supporter of Donald Trump, was vying for the 38th District Senate seat in Oklahoma. His now-deleted campaign site highlighted his commitment to “traditional conservative values.” A Tulsa native, he had worked in the oil fields for many years and leaves behind his parents, a sister, three daughters, a son, and five grandchildren.
Prior to his discovery, Christian had been reported missing on April 29 as he did not show up for a scheduled meeting. The following morning, authorities were notified after his truck crashed into a ravine near Highway 30 and Sandy Sanders Wildlife Refuge. Officers subsequently located his deceased body inside the vehicle.
The medical examiner concluded that Christian likely died from a gunshot wound to the head, classifying the death as a suicide, a statement first covered by local news.
The comprehensive autopsy report is anticipated to be released later this month. Greg Mashburn, from the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, mentioned that they are nearing the end of their investigation and will present their findings to Christian’s family before submitting them to Beckham County District Attorney Angela Marcy. “We’re waiting for the medical examiner’s report since it’s crucial evidence,” Mashburn noted.
Mashburn acknowledged the family’s skepticism over the suicide ruling, saying they would sit down to address some of their questions, though others may never be resolved.
Farah Christian, the victim’s ex-wife, criticized the investigation’s handling in a Facebook post, suggesting errors such as inconsistencies regarding which hand Christian reportedly used to fire a weapon. “Barry was right-handed; he was reportedly firing with his left hand,” she pointed out. Moreover, she mentioned bullet holes on the truck’s exterior, alleging he may have shot at the vehicle before turning the gun on himself. She emphasized that the OSBI had indicated the scene seemed staged.
In response to inquiries about the case, an OSBI spokesperson stated that they will deliver the comprehensive findings to the prosecutor’s office as the next step.
One of Christian’s daughters, Nele, expressed her disbelief over the suicide ruling. “There are significant discrepancies in my father’s death that merit further scrutiny,” she stated. “There were multiple bullet holes in the truck, implying he may have fired before taking his own life. If that’s the conclusion, I would like to see supporting forensic evidence.”
District Attorney Marcy remarked on the challenging nature of the situation, commenting on the family’s grief and their comments on social media.
Even after his death, Christian’s name was listed on the Republican primary ballot for the election held on June 16, where he received over 500 votes.
Rick Vernon, who won the state Senate seat, expressed his condolences, stating, “Barry loved Oklahoma and was willing to serve our state, which is admirable regardless of politics. Our hearts are with his family during this unimaginable time.”
