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Oklahoma Man Charged in Christmas Day Death Tied to Backyard Target Practice

Authorities cite physical evidence plus trajectory analysis to link a neighbor’s Christmas handgun practice to the fatal shot.

Overview

  • Sandra Phelps, described by officials as elderly, was struck in the right arm while seated on a Comanche porch holding a child and was pronounced dead at the scene.
  • Deputies say Cody Wayne Adams had been shooting a Glock .45 he bought for Christmas at a Red Bull can in his backyard a few blocks north of the home.
  • Investigators reported spent casings, the can and a broken ceramic tile at Adams’ property, with the firing line aligning with the porch where Phelps was hit.
  • The affidavit notes Adams’ yard lacked a suitable backstop, and neighbors reported hearing multiple rounds earlier that afternoon.
  • Adams, 33, is charged with first-degree manslaughter, was released on a $100,000 bond, and has a preliminary hearing set for late February.