STILLWATER, OK — A deadly shooting that sent shockwaves through the quiet community of Stillwater has now led to the arrest of a suspect in connection with the deaths of two local residents. Authorities have confirmed that Theodore DeMarrio McCloud, 36, of Langston, Oklahoma, has been taken into custody following a swift and intensive investigation into the tragic triple shooting that occurred earlier this week.
On the evening of the incident, officers from the Stillwater Police Department responded to reports of gunfire in a residential area. Upon arriving at the scene, first responders discovered a devastating situation: Vanessa Henry, 38, and Andrew Rice, 35—both residents of Stillwater—were found with fatal gunshot wounds and were pronounced dead at the scene.
A third victim, Carman Murphy, 34, also of Stillwater, was located nearby with at least one gunshot wound. Emergency medical personnel transported Murphy to a local hospital, where she remains in stable condition. Her recovery is being closely monitored, and she is expected to provide vital information to investigators in the coming days.
According to preliminary findings, the shooting took place in what authorities believe to be a targeted incident rather than a random act of violence. Witness statements and physical evidence collected at the scene helped investigators identify McCloud as the primary suspect. Authorities say he fled the scene in the moments following the shooting, prompting a multi-agency manhunt.
After working tirelessly for several days, law enforcement officials located McCloud and placed him under arrest without incident. He is now facing multiple charges, including two counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted murder, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. He is currently being held at the Payne County Detention Center pending formal arraignment.
Stillwater Police Chief Jeff Watts expressed deep sympathy to the victims’ families and gratitude to the community for its support during the investigation. “This is a heartbreaking tragedy that has forever changed the lives of several families,” said Chief Watts. “We extend our deepest condolences to the loved ones of Vanessa Henry and Andrew Rice and offer our prayers for a full recovery for Carman Murphy. I also want to commend our officers, investigators, and partner agencies for their professionalism, perseverance, and dedication in bringing a dangerous suspect into custody.”
As the investigation remains active, authorities have not yet released a clear motive for the shooting. However, officials believe that all parties involved were acquainted, and there is no immediate threat to the public.
Friends and family members of the victims have begun sharing tributes on social media, mourning the loss of Vanessa Henry, described as a loving mother and devoted friend, and Andrew Rice, remembered for his generosity and community involvement. A candlelight vigil is being planned by local residents to honor the victims and support Carman Murphy during her recovery.
Anyone with additional information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Stillwater Police Department tip line or submit information anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
As the community comes to grips with this act of violence, local leaders and advocacy groups are calling for renewed focus on conflict resolution, mental health support, and anti-violence initiatives to prevent future tragedies.
More details, including court proceedings and memorial arrangements, are expected to be released in the coming days.
Leave a Reply