CLEVELAND COUNTY, Okla. — A 9-year-old boy, Ruger Boude, died in early April 2026 after being admitted to a hospital with injuries consistent with long-term abuse. His death has led to the arrests of his mother, Alicia Busey, and her boyfriend, Steven Duty, both facing serious charges including second-degree murder and child abuse.
Timeline of Events
On April 8, 2026, Ruger Boude was rushed to the hospital, where doctors discovered signs of severe physical trauma. The injuries included a collapsed left lung and a massive brain bleed, both of which were life-threatening. Despite undergoing surgery, Boude died just two days later, on April 10, 2026.
Following his admission, hospital staff reported the injuries to the police, prompting an investigation. The Oklahoma City Police Department soon interviewed Alicia Busey and her boyfriend, Steven Duty, both of whom were questioned about the boy’s injuries.
Initially, Busey claimed the injuries were the result of a fight between Ruger and his older brother.
The Shocking Findings of the Autopsy
After Ruger’s death, an autopsy revealed that the extent of the injuries indicated ongoing abuse over a prolonged period. Some of the details uncovered include:
- Bruises throughout his body in various stages of healing
- A broken wrist
- BBs embedded in his soft tissue, including his kidney
- Other children in the home also had BBs embedded in their bodies and multiple fractures in various stages of healing
Doctors concluded that the injuries were consistent with long-term abuse, rather than an isolated incident.
The Arrests and Charges
On May 4, 2026, after a thorough investigation, Alicia Busey (38 years old) and Steven Duty (42 years old) were arrested and booked into the Oklahoma County Detention Center on charges of second-degree murder and child abuse. Both are currently being held with a $5 million bond.
Their preliminary hearings are scheduled for May 26, 2026.
Community’s Heartbreaking Reaction
Ruger Boude’s obituary described him as “strong, energetic, and spiritual,” with the family fondly recalling how he “taught those who knew him empathy and what true love really looks like.” The obituary further described Ruger as a “big boy helper” and “Mom’s little man.”
The tragic loss has deeply impacted the community, with residents grieving the loss of a young boy whose life was cut short by abuse.
The State of Oklahoma’s Response
The Oklahoma City Police Department has said that investigations into the abuse are ongoing, and they are examining all evidence related to the case. As this investigation unfolds, the public is calling for more measures to prevent abuse, particularly within families that are supposed to offer the most protection.
What’s Next for the Case?
As Alicia Busey and Steven Duty await their preliminary hearings, the case is likely to draw attention due to the extent of the abuse discovered, and the fact that it involved a child who was supposed to be cared for and loved.
Advocates for child welfare are hoping that the legal system will ensure that justice is served, not only for Ruger Boude but also for the other children in the household who suffered abuse.
This case has highlighted the devastating reality of child abuse in households that are supposed to be a safe space for children.
It is a stark reminder of how crucial it is for communities and authorities to be vigilant in recognizing signs of abuse, providing support to at-risk children, and holding those responsible for harm accountable.
