At a Glance
- Oklahoma resident charged with first-degree manslaughter after shooting a woman on Christmas day.
- The incident occurred while he was target-practicing in his backyard.
- Sandra Phelps died from a single bullet that entered her chest.
- Why it matters: The case highlights risks of shooting near residential areas and the legal consequences of negligent target practice.
The shooting occurred on Christmas day in Stephens County, Oklahoma, when Cody Wayne Adams was firing his new Glock 45 in his backyard. Authorities responded to a call at 3:15 p.m. and found Sandra Phelps dead.
Incident Details
At approximately 3:15 p.m., the Stephens County Sheriff’s Office received reports of a gunshot wound. Emergency personnel discovered Sandra Phelps with a single bullet that entered her upper right arm and then her chest, leading to her death.
- Location: Less than a mile from Adams’ home.
- Weapon: Glock 45, newly purchased for Christmas.
- Evidence: A single bullet trajectory matched the angle from Adams’ backyard.
Legal Response
Adams was arrested Thursday and released on a $100,000 bond the following day. It remains unclear whether he has legal representation.
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 3:15 p.m. | Call for gunshot wound |
| 3:15 p.m. | Sandra Phelps pronounced dead |
| Thursday | Cody Wayne Adams arrested |
| Friday | Bond set at $100,000 and released |
The sheriff’s office noted that the nearby home lacked suitable shooting backstops, contributing to the incident.
Key Takeaways
- Cody Wayne Adams faces first-degree manslaughter for the shooting.
- The fatal shot was a single bullet that matched Adams’ shooting angle.
- Adams was released on a $100,000 bond after arrest.
This tragic event underscores the dangers of target practice near residential areas and the severe legal ramifications that can follow.
