Source: United States Department of Justice News
A Tulsa man who shot and killed a 13-year-old during an argument at Parkview Terrace apartments in Tulsa pleaded guilty Tuesday in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
Christian James Harrison, 20, of Tulsa, pleaded guilty to second degree murder in Indian Country.
“Christian Harrison took the life of a 13-year-old boy. Today, he has been held accountable for this terrible crime. My thoughts are with the child’s family and friends,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Our children are meant to outlive us, not be struck down in senseless acts of violence. Law enforcement officials will continue to pursue justice for victims of violent crime to make our neighborhoods safer for all children.”
On Dec. 22, 2021, an argument occurred between Harrison, who was 19 years old at the time, and the victim’s older brother. The brother had been visiting his girlfriend at Harrison’s apartment. Shortly after, the young man returned with his 13-year-old brother—the victim, and another child to continue the argument. They found Harrison outside near the apartment mailboxes. During the argument, Harrison pulled out a firearm. The older brother asked Harrison if he was going to use the gun rather than fight. Harrison answered “yes” and shot at the group approximately seven times. Three bullets struck the victim. Harrison fled from the crime scene.
At approximately 6 pm, the Tulsa Police Department responded to shots fired at the apartment complex. Officers found the victim with multiple gunshot wounds. He was later pronounced dead at a Tulsa hospital.
Several witnesses identified Harrison as the shooter. On Dec. 28, 2021, the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service and FBI located and arrested Harrison outside a vacant trailer in Locust Grove.
The FBI, Tulsa Police Department, and Cherokee Nation Marshal Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven J. Briden is prosecuting the case.