At a Glance
- Oklahoma man charged with first-degree manslaughter after shooting a woman during backyard target practice.
- Sandra Phelps was killed by a single bullet that entered her chest on Christmas Day.
- Cody Wayne Adams was arrested and released on a $100,000 bond.
Why it matters: The case shows how casual shooting practices can lead to fatal accidents and highlights the need for safe backstops near homes.
An Oklahoma resident faces a first-degree manslaughter charge after a Christmas-day shooting in his backyard killed a nearby woman, raising questions about backyard safety and gun-range regulations.
Incident Overview
The incident occurred at about 3:15 p.m. on Thursday when emergency crews were dispatched after reports of a gunshot wound. The victim, Sandra Phelps, was sitting under a covered porch with family when the shots rang out. She collapsed after saying “ouch,” and was pronounced dead at the scene.
- The single bullet entered Phelps’ upper right arm and exited into her chest.
- No additional shots were heard after the initial burst.
- The shooting took place within a few blocks of Phelps’ home.
Investigation and Arrest
Investigators traced the trajectory of the bullet to a backyard where Cody Wayne Adams had been target-practicing with a newly purchased Glock 45. A Red Bull can used for shooting was found in the yard, and the angle of the shots matched the bullet’s path. Adams, 33, was visibly upset and began to cry when deputies learned someone was injured. He was arrested and later released on a $100,000 bond; his legal representation status remains unknown.
| Person | Charge | Bond | Date of Incident |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cody Wayne Adams | First-degree manslaughter | $100,000 | 25 Dec 2023 |
| Sandra Phelps | Victim | – | 25 Dec 2023 |
Key Takeaways
- A backyard shooting can result in fatal accidents when backstops are inadequate.
- Cody Wayne Adams faces a serious charge after a single bullet killed Sandra Phelps.
- The case underscores the importance of safe shooting practices and proper backstop installation.
The incident, occurring on a holiday, highlights the unintended dangers of casual firearms use and the legal consequences that can follow.
