A 19-year-old man was shot and killed while getting a haircut inside a northeast Oklahoma City apartment on Sunday, a killing that has left family and neighbors stunned and police scrambling for answers.
Relatives say he had gone to the unit to swap a tattoo for a haircut. Officers later found him inside the apartment with gunshot wounds. He was taken to a local hospital, where he died.
How the Shooting Unfolded
According to News9, officers were called to the Page Woodson Apartments at 601 North Stonewall Avenue after someone discovered the victim in the unit. Family members identified him as 19-year-old Emmitt Gresham Jr.
Investigators are treating the case as a suspected robbery that turned violent while Gresham was in the chair for a haircut. Oklahoma City police said no arrests have been made so far and the investigation is still very much active.
Family and Fundraiser
In the days after the shooting, Gresham’s family launched a GoFundMe to help cover funeral and burial costs. They say he went to the appointment to trade a tattoo for the cut and was shot instead.
The fundraiser, organized by his mother Teri Thompson, describes Emmitt as a gifted tattoo artist who was always smiling and asks for community help to cover expenses. As of this week, the campaign had raised several thousand dollars toward its $7,000 goal.
Police Ask for Tips
Detectives are urging anyone with information or video related to the shooting to call the homicide tip line at (405) 297-1200. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers.
The Oklahoman reported that Gresham’s killing was one of several deadly incidents across Oklahoma City over the same weekend. Police say they are following leads, but have not released any suspect description or a possible motive.
Community Reaction and Service Plans
The shooting rattled what neighbors describe as a usually quiet stretch of northeast Oklahoma City and sharpened ongoing worries about violence involving young people.
As reported by News9, Sims Boxing Academy owner Lavel Sims said his gym works to provide a place for kids to release anger legally and keep them away from trouble on the streets.
The family has scheduled a funeral service for Saturday at 9:30 a.m. at Sims Boxing Academy, according to relatives.
What’s Next
Oklahoma City police continue to investigate and are asking the public for any information that could help them identify whoever is responsible. Community members are preparing to gather for the service, while the family has requested privacy as they navigate arrangements and grief.
