Oklahoma City police fatally shot a suspect linked to multiple violent crimes on Saturday afternoon. Deante James Hawthorne, 34, was apparently involved in a series of shootings, two homicides, and several carjackings across the Oklahoma City and Moore areas.
Overview of the Incidents
The crime spree reportedly began early Saturday morning in Moore, where Hawthorne shot two individuals at a residence. One victim succumbed to their injuries, while the other was left wounded. Following this incident, he carjacked a vehicle and fled the scene.
Sequence of Events
- Time and Location: The spree commenced early Saturday in Moore.
- Initial Shooting: Two individuals were shot at a residence, resulting in one fatality.
- Carjacking: The suspect then carjacked a vehicle and drove to northwest Oklahoma City.
- Subsequent Shooting: Near Northeast 26th Street and Martin Luther King Avenue, he shot and killed another victim.
Police Pursuit and Fatal Confrontation
Officers located Hawthorne near Southeast 44th Street and Interstate 35 later that afternoon. When they attempted to pull him over, a high-speed chase ensued. The pursuit concluded near Interstate 240 and Eastern Avenue when Hawthorne crashed the stolen vehicle after crossing a grassy area.
Final Attempted Carjacking
After the crash, Hawthorne attempted to carjack another individual. However, police responded promptly and fatally shot him at the scene. Fortunately, no other individuals were injured during this confrontation.
Suspect Background and Criminal History
Hawthorne had a significant criminal history. He had previously served time in the Oklahoma Department of Corrections for robbery and attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon, among other charges. He was released from prison in 2019.
Ongoing Investigation
Following the incident, the officer involved in the shooting was placed on routine administrative leave, a standard procedure in such cases. Investigators are still gathering details, and further updates are expected as the investigation proceeds.
Traffic Impact
As the investigation unfolded, traffic on several key routes was disrupted. The Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) initially closed westbound lanes of Interstate 240 at Bryant Avenue and the northbound Interstate 35 ramp to eastbound I-240, urging drivers to seek alternate routes.
Overall, this violent episode has raised concerns within the community, highlighting the need for continued attention to public safety in Oklahoma City and surrounding areas.
