A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded Tuesday morning at the Tulsa Boys’ Home, where a 17-year-old boy fatally shot himself after reportedly taking an off-duty police officer’s firearm during an archery class.
According to the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO), the incident occurred around 9:15 a.m. when an off-duty Tulsa Police Department officer was conducting an archery session at the facility. Investigators say the boy approached the officer from behind, grabbed his firearm from the holster, and shot himself.
Emergency crews and law enforcement officers quickly responded, but the teen died from his injuries at the scene. Authorities have not released the victim’s identity out of respect for his family.
Officials said several staff members and at least two other teens witnessed the tragic event. The Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office has taken over the investigation, as the Boys’ Home falls under their jurisdiction.
“This is just an absolute tragedy, and our prayers are with everybody who witnessed what happened today,” said Casey Roebuck with TCSO.
TPD Captain Richard Meulenberg shared that the department has been involved in running the archery program at the Boys’ Home for nearly a decade, calling this the first incident of its kind. He confirmed that the firearm involved was a department-issued weapon, and the officer involved has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
Authorities continue to look into how the incident occurred and what safety measures may need to be reviewed. The Tulsa community is mourning the loss of a young life and offering condolences to the family, staff, and residents affected by this devastating event.
