Story perspectives

Man Charged with Manslaughter After Christmas Shooting

12/29/2025

Summary

Story summary

Cody Wayne Adams, 33, faces a first-degree manslaughter charge for shooting Sandra Phelps, an elderly neighbor, on Christmas Day in Comanche, Oklahoma.
Sandra Phelps was with family when struck.
Witnesses heard gunshots before Phelps collapsed.
Investigators say Adams was shooting at a Red Bull can without proper safety measures.
Adams expressed remorse after Phelps's death, and was released on a $100,000 bond with a hearing set for February 25, 2026.

History

Historical Context

The December 25, 2022, shooting in Comanche, Oklahoma, which claimed Sandra Phelps's life, reflects ongoing gun violence issues in the U.S. In 1999, the Columbine High School shooting intensified debates over gun safety, coinciding with over 13,000 gun-related deaths that year. The incident highlights the urgent need for stricter firearm regulations and improved safety practices in communities.

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Story summary

Cody Wayne Adams, 33, faces a first-degree manslaughter charge for shooting Sandra Phelps, an elderly neighbor, on Christmas Day in Comanche, Oklahoma.
Sandra Phelps was with family when struck.
Witnesses heard gunshots before Phelps collapsed.
Investigators say Adams was shooting at a Red Bull can without proper safety measures.
Adams expressed remorse after Phelps's death, and was released on a $100,000 bond with a hearing set for February 25, 2026.

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