On Sunday, powerful winds caused significant damage across central Oklahoma, triggering a 50-acre wildfire near Edmond and damaging power infrastructure along Interstate 35 in Norman.
Wildfire Near Edmond
Fire crews from nearly a dozen departments responded to a wildfire near NE 234th and North Henney around 11:30 a.m. Edmond Fire officials estimate that about 50 acres were burned. The fierce winds hindered firefighters’ ability to use drones, forcing them to rely on ground resources with support from the state forestry department.
Power Pole Damage Along I-35 in Norman
The same strong winds caused several power poles to snap in half, downing power lines across Interstate 35 in Norman. Drivers were diverted at Main Street as utility crews worked to repair the damage. Both northbound and southbound lanes of I-35 were reopened just after midnight once repairs were completed.
Oklahoma AG Urges Clemency Denial for Tulsa Death Row Inmate
Oklahoma Attorney General calls for justice for victims in Tulsa double murder case
Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has urged the state Pardon and Parole Board to deny clemency to Raymond Johnson, who was convicted in the 2007 murders of Brooke Whitaker and her infant daughter, Kya, in Tulsa.
Clemency Hearing and Execution Date
Johnson’s clemency hearing is set for April 8, with his execution date scheduled for May 14. In a statement, Drummond emphasized that Johnson has failed to take full accountability for his actions and that justice for the victims must prevail.
Noble Public Schools Staff Member Arrested in Misconduct Investigation
Noble Public Schools staff member removed from campus amid sexual misconduct allegations
A staff member from Noble Public Schools is currently in custody as authorities investigate allegations of sexual misconduct.
Immediate Action Taken by District
The district confirmed that the employee was immediately removed from school property, and access to the campus has been revoked. Law enforcement and the district attorney’s office are handling the investigation. Further details about the allegations remain undisclosed at this time.
Midwest City Father Arrested After Teen Son Shot in the Head
Father in custody after shooting incident in Midwest City
A Midwest City man, Keith Slaughter Jr., has been arrested after police say he shot his 16-year-old son early Saturday morning. Officers responded to a home near Northeast 10th Street and Midwest Boulevard at 5:45 a.m. and found the teen with a gunshot wound to the head.
Investigation and Son’s Condition
The teen was rushed to the hospital, but his condition has not been released. Police later found the suspect at a nearby apartment and arrested him. Investigators are still looking into the case.
Grass Fire Near Sayre Forces Temporary Evacuations
Grass fire prompts temporary evacuations near Sayre, Oklahoma
A large grass fire near Sayre, Oklahoma, sparked on Sunday and led to temporary evacuations. The fire broke out north of Sayre around noon, prompting officials to move residents to a local school for safety.
Fire Contained and Evacuation Orders Lifted
Multiple fire departments, including teams from Sweetwater and Texola, responded to the blaze. Evacuation orders were lifted about an hour and a half later after conditions improved, and the fire was successfully contained.
