Oklahoma Man Charged in Christmas Day Shooting

An Oklahoma man is currently facing first-degree manslaughter charges after a woman was fatally shot by a bullet fired during target practice in her backyard on Christmas Day.

Cody Adams, 33, has been charged with first-degree manslaughter, as indicated by court documents.

According to a probable cause affidavit, the shooting occurred on December 25 at around 3:15 p.m. in Stevens County. Authorities responded to reports of a shooting that injured Sandra Phelps, who was seated on her front porch with her child at the time.

Witnesses mentioned they heard gunfire coming from the north side of the property for several minutes. Shortly before Phelps collapsed, she was heard saying, “It hurts,” and had reportedly remarked about someone receiving a new gun for Christmas.

Investigators found that a bullet struck Phelps’ upper right arm before entering her chest, indicating it had come from a steep downward angle.

Further investigations revealed that one nearby property lacked adequate bullet containment measures, which was Adams’ residence. He told the authorities that he was using a new Glock .45 handgun he had received for Christmas, and pointed out where he had been shooting at a Red Bull can in his backyard.

The affidavit noted, “There was nothing behind his property to prevent the bullets from traveling beyond his property and injuring anyone.”

Additionally, police discovered a spent shell casing and fragments of broken ceramic tile in front of the target, which might have altered the bullet’s trajectory.

After being informed of Phelps’ death, Adams expressed remorse and appeared visibly upset. He made a court appearance on Friday, subsequently being released on bail set at $100,000.