Christmas Day shattered for one Oklahoma family when a stray bullet ended a life, turning a festive gathering into a scene of unimaginable tragedy. Sandra Phelps was enjoying a peaceful afternoon with loved ones, holding a child on her front porch, when the unthinkable happened.
At approximately 3:15 p.m., the Stephens County Sheriff's Office responded to a frantic call – a woman had been shot. Witnesses reported hearing sporadic gunfire for several minutes before Phelps suddenly cried out in pain and collapsed, moments after remarking someone had received a new firearm as a gift.
The investigation quickly revealed a horrifying truth: a single bullet had pierced Phelps’ upper right arm, traveling into her chest. The angle of entry suggested the shot came from a significant height, painting a grim picture of the bullet’s path.
Deputies focused their search on nearby properties, seeking the source of the deadly shot. Their attention landed on the residence of Cody Adams, 33, where investigators found a concerning lack of safety precautions for firearms practice.
Adams admitted to target practice with a newly purchased Glock .45-caliber handgun, a Christmas gift to himself. He showed officers his makeshift range – a Red Bull can placed on the ground in his backyard. Crucially, there was no backstop to prevent bullets from leaving his property.
Evidence at the scene further revealed a disturbing detail: spent shell casings and fragments of broken ceramic tile were discovered in front of the target. Investigators believe the tile likely deflected the bullet, altering its trajectory and sending it towards Phelps’ home.
When informed that his actions were believed to have caused Phelps’ death, Adams reportedly expressed deep remorse, becoming visibly distraught. He offered a simple, heartbreaking apology, a sentiment that could not undo the devastation he had caused.
Adams has been charged with first-degree manslaughter and was released on a $100,000 bond following a court appearance. The case serves as a stark and tragic reminder of the critical importance of firearm safety and responsible gun ownership.
