Oklahoma man accidentally kills neighbor while target practicing in his backyard on Christmas.
On Christmas Day, a tragic incident unfolded in Stephens County, Oklahoma, where an act of target practice resulted in the death of a neighbor. According to police reports, 33-year-old Cody Wayne Adams was engaged in shooting with a newly acquired handgun in his backyard when a stray bullet struck Sandra Phelps, who was sitting outside her home with family and cradling a child.
Adams has since been charged with first-degree manslaughter. The arrest affidavit indicates that Phelps was on her covered front porch, enjoying a festive gathering when the shooting incident occurred. The two residences were approximately three-tenths of a mile apart, or nearly 1,600 feet. Phelps was holding one child in her left arm while another was positioned in a stroller nearby, alongside two adult family members. Witnesses described hearing multiple gunshots—approximately five to seven rounds—before Phelps suddenly exclaimed in pain and collapsed.
Emergency responders were alerted to the gunshot wound at 3:15 p.m. on that day. The medical examination revealed that the bullet, fired at a steep downward angle, had penetrated Phelps’ right upper arm and struck her chest just below the armpit. Despite immediate resuscitation efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators focusing on the source of the errant shot quickly identified Adams’ home as the origin of the gunfire, particularly as it was the only location in the area without appropriate backstops for safe shooting. Neighbors reported hearing around 20 shots fired from Adams’ property. He later acknowledged that he had been firing at a discarded Red Bull can using his new firearm.
At the crime scene, officers observed spent shell casings and other evidence consistent with Adams’ account. Captain Timothy Vann, one of the arresting officers, reported that a piece of broken ceramic tile near the can had likely caused the bullet to ricochet and strike Phelps. Upon being informed about the tragic event, Adams reportedly became visibly distressed and expressed remorse.
Adams made his court appearance for the manslaughter charge the following Friday, where he was released on a bond of 0,000. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for February 25, 2026, as the investigation into this tragic incident continues to unfold.
The incident brings to light significant concerns regarding firearm safety and the responsibilities of gun owners, particularly in residential areas. The unexpected loss of life has left the local community and Phelps’ family grappling with the aftermath of this senseless tragedy.
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