The suspected remains of a 56-year-old Oklahoma man missing since June 24 were found last week after police officers received a tip about his whereabouts. Upon arriving at the scene in Okmulgee County, officers confirmed that the victim was dead. While positive identification of the remains has yet to be made, the authorities have already made an arrest on murder charges.
Here is a timeline of reported events.
- On June 24, the 56-year-old was reported missing by family members after he failed to arrive at a destination in North Carolina.
- On an unidentified date, the missing man’s wrecked motor vehicle was found in Okmulgee County. It appeared to be abandoned.
- Investigators began searching for a 37-year-old woman believed to have a connection to the victim’s disappearance. Authorities believe she was the last person to see the man alive.
- On July 3, police received the tip about a deceased man.
- On July 10, authorities arrested the 37-year-old woman, who is now facing murder charges. Reportedly, the woman has confessed to killing the victim by shooting him.
No motive for the murder has been reported, and the authorities are continuing to investigate the incident.
On face value, it looks like the woman in custody shoulders the full blame for the man’s death. However, looking at the incident from a defense perspective, it is difficult to say unequivocally that she is at fault without additional details. Any number of events could have led up to the shooting that may help the woman avoid the harshest consequences for her alleged actions if proven.
In cases like this, it is wise to consult with a criminal defense attorney familiar with murder/homicide charges before talking to authorities. Further, making a confession without representation is one of the biggest mistakes a defendant can make when it comes to allegations of violent criminal activity.