East Tulsa, OK – July 27, 2025 — A heartbreaking act of violence has left the East Tulsa community in shock after a 15-year-old boy was shot and killed during a church-hosted community event. The Tulsa Police Department confirmed that the victim, identified as Alexander Puentes, was shot on the grounds of St. Thomas More Catholic Church, located near 27th Street and 129th East Avenue.
At approximately 9:10 p.m., Tulsa officers were dispatched to the scene following reports of a shooting during what was supposed to be a peaceful evening of fellowship and outreach. Upon arrival, they discovered Alexander suffering from a gunshot wound to the stomach. Emergency medical personnel rushed the teenager to the hospital in critical condition. Despite extensive efforts by medical staff, Alexander succumbed to his injuries and passed away a few hours later.
According to police, the church was hosting a community outreach event—an initiative aimed at fostering unity and providing a safe space for local families and youth. What began as a celebration of togetherness turned into a night of chaos and mourning.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the violence stemmed from a prior altercation earlier in the evening, one that had apparently carried over to the church event. Detectives believe that tensions between the victim and the suspect escalated when the two encountered each other at the gathering. Witnesses stated that the suspect, also a teenager, arrived at the event and became involved in a physical confrontation with Alexander. During the altercation, the suspect reportedly drew a firearm, shot Alexander, and immediately fled the scene.
Authorities have since identified the suspect and are actively working to locate and apprehend them. The Tulsa Police Department has not yet released the suspect’s name due to their age but confirmed that the individual is known to law enforcement.
In a brief statement, a Tulsa Police spokesperson said:
“This is an unspeakable tragedy. A 15-year-old lost his life in a place where he should have felt safe. We are committed to bringing justice for Alexander and his family and urge anyone with information about the suspect’s whereabouts to contact investigators immediately.”
The St. Thomas More Catholic Church, shaken by the incident, released a message of sorrow and support for the family:
“We are devastated by the tragic events that took place during our community outreach evening. Our hearts and prayers are with the family of the young victim. We remain committed to serving and protecting our community and will cooperate fully with law enforcement throughout this investigation.”
News of Alexander Puentes’ death has rippled across the community, prompting an outpouring of grief from classmates, neighbors, and local leaders. Many remember him as a kind and respectful teen with a bright future.
A memorial has begun to form outside the church, where candles, flowers, and handwritten notes express deep sorrow and a demand for an end to the cycle of youth violence.
As detectives continue their investigation, authorities are urging anyone with knowledge of the incident or the suspect’s location to contact Tulsa Crime Stoppers at 918-596-COPS. Anonymous tips are welcome and could play a critical role in helping police make an arrest.
This tragic event marks yet another painful reminder of the growing threat of youth violence in communities across the nation. For the family of Alexander Puentes, and for the East Tulsa community, it is a time of mourning, reflection, and calls for change.
This is a developing story. More details will be shared as they become available.
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