An Oklahoma man, Cody Wayne Adams, is facing serious charges after a tragic incident on Christmas Day. A stray bullet from a gun he had just bought struck a neighbor, Sandra Phelps, who was sitting on her porch with a child. Authorities say she was shot in the upper arm, and the bullet hit her chest. Sadly, she died shortly after.
Witnesses reported that Phelps heard gunshots, exclaimed “ouch,” and then collapsed. This shocking event has triggered an outcry in the community about gun safety and responsible firearm use.
Adams, 33, bought a Glock .45-caliber handgun as a Christmas gift for himself. He was allegedly shooting at cans in his backyard, about half a mile from where Phelps was sitting. When investigators informed him that he might be responsible for the shooting, he became visibly upset.
Capt. Timothy Vann from the Stephens County Sheriff’s Office noted in his affidavit that Adams was shooting towards the ground but failed to consider that bullets can travel beyond his property. He expressed concern over how this type of reckless behavior endangers lives, particularly in residential areas.
Under Oklahoma law, first-degree manslaughter involves causing someone’s death while committing a misdemeanor, which in this case relates to unsafe firearm conduct. If convicted, Adams could face serious consequences, with potential penalties reaching up to life in prison. He has been released on a $100,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court in late February.
This incident underscores the importance of responsible gun ownership. Increased awareness of gun safety practices is sorely needed. A survey conducted by the Pew Research Center showed that nearly 55% of American gun owners believe that gun safety education is vital to preventing accidents. The community’s reaction has also sparked conversations online, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations and better training for gun enthusiasts.
As discussions continue, it’s crucial to remember the real-life impact of such tragedies. The loss of Sandra Phelps is a painful reminder of the need for awareness and accountability in firearm use.
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