Oklahoma City, OK – A tragic shooting late Sunday night in southeast Oklahoma City has claimed the life of 16-year-old Jashaun Cheatom, authorities confirmed. The Oklahoma City Police Department is now conducting an active investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deadly incident, as family, friends, and the community mourn the loss of yet another young life to gun violence.
Details of the Shooting
According to law enforcement officials, the shooting occurred around 10:45 p.m. on Southeast 46th Street near Sunnylane Road, in the breezeway of an apartment complex.
Police responded to multiple reports of gunfire and arrived at the scene to find a teenage male suffering from gunshot wounds. Officers and emergency responders provided immediate aid before transporting the victim to a nearby hospital. Unfortunately, despite medical efforts, Cheatom succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The suspect or suspects involved remain at large, and investigators have not yet publicly identified a motive for the shooting. Police are currently gathering evidence, reviewing surveillance footage, and interviewing witnesses in an attempt to piece together what led to the fatal encounter.
Community Shocked and Mourning
News of Jashaun Cheatom’s death has sent shockwaves through the local community, as family members, friends, and neighbors struggle to comprehend the sudden loss of a young life.
Loved ones describe Jashaun as a bright and caring young man with aspirations for the future. Many have taken to social media to express their sorrow and frustration over the continued violence affecting young people in the area.
“He was just a kid with so much ahead of him,” said a family friend. “We’re tired of losing our young ones to this senseless violence. Something needs to change.”
Neighbors at the apartment complex where the shooting occurred also expressed concern over the increasing violence in the area.
“We heard the shots, and it was terrifying,” said one resident. “This used to be a quiet place, but lately, there’s been more crime, and now a child has lost his life. It’s heartbreaking.”
Police Investigation and Call for Information
The Oklahoma City Police Department is urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in the investigation. Detectives are working tirelessly to determine who is responsible for Jashaun Cheatom’s death and bring them to justice.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether this shooting was targeted, random, or related to gang activity. They are also investigating whether Cheatom knew the shooter and if any ongoing disputes may have led to the violence.
Police are asking anyone with knowledge of the incident to contact the Oklahoma City Crime Stoppers hotline at (405) 235-7300. Anonymous tips can also be submitted, and a reward may be available for information leading to an arrest.
A Growing Concern Over Youth Violence
Cheatom’s death marks another tragic incident in a string of shootings involving young victims in Oklahoma City. Community leaders and activists are calling for more action to address youth violence, gun access, and public safety in at-risk neighborhoods.
Local organizations, churches, and schools are rallying together, calling for violence prevention programs, mentorship opportunities, and safer community spaces to help steer young people away from dangerous situations.
“This isn’t just about one incident. This is about a growing problem,” said one community organizer. “We need to give our kids a better future, and that starts with addressing why these things keep happening.”
Memorial and Funeral Arrangements
Friends and family members are currently planning a candlelight vigil in honor of Jashaun Cheatom, where loved ones will have the opportunity to share memories, release balloons, and call for an end to the violence. The vigil is set to take place later this week at a location to be announced.
Funeral arrangements will be shared once finalized by the family. A GoFundMe page has been created to assist with burial costs and memorial expenses, with community members stepping up to offer financial and emotional support.
Final Thoughts
The tragic loss of Jashaun Cheatom serves as another painful reminder of the devastating impact of gun violence. As his family grieves, they, along with the Oklahoma City community, are demanding justice and accountability for his untimely death.
Police continue to ask anyone with information, security footage, or witness accounts to come forward and help provide answers for Jashaun’s family.