In the early hours of New Year's Day 2023, a family argument in north Tulsa tragically escalated, resulting in the city's first homicide of the year. Byron Speed, a 40-year-old man, was shot multiple times outside a house near West 46th Street North and MLK Jr. Boulevard just after midnight on January 3rd. First responders attempted to render aid, but Byron was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after their arrival.
The events leading up to the fatal shooting began with a dispute among
family members. In the midst of the argument, Byron's own brother, 39-year-old Clifton Speed, is alleged to have produced a firearm and shot him. Following the gunshots, other family members present at the scene were able to disarm Clifton, who sustained several injuries during the struggle for the weapon.
Tulsa police quickly identified Clifton Speed as the person responsible for his brother's death. He was arrested and is facing charges of first-degree murder and possession of a firearm after a former felony conviction. Investigators have stated that the shooting was the unfortunate culmination of the argument between the two brothers.
