In the winter of 2018, a young man's life was tragically cut short in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Demonte Barbee, an 18-year-old male, was with a 19-year-old friend on the night of December 15th when a. 45 caliber handgun discharged. The single bullet struck Demonte in the torso. He was quickly transported to a hospital in Tulsa for medical attention. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, Demonte succumbed to his injuries and passed away the following day, on December 16, 2018.
Known to
his loved ones as 'Yummy,' Demonte was remembered as an outgoing and athletic young man with a great sense of humor who loved to make people smile. He had a passion for playing video games, particularly 'Call of Duty: Black Ops,' and enjoyed spending his time playing volleyball, basketball, dancing, and being with his family and friends. A native of Nowata, Oklahoma, he had attended Nowata High School before earning his GED in Miami, Oklahoma. He was part of a large and loving family and was known for his fun-loving nature and strong family ties.
The Bartlesville Police Department investigated the shooting that led to Demonte's untimely death. The incident was classified as an accidental shooting. The investigation focused on the circumstances surrounding the handling of the firearm at the time of the incident. Reports from the investigation indicated that his friend had accidentally discharged the weapon. As the death was ruled accidental, there were no immediate arrests made in connection with the shooting. The authorities emphasized the importance of gun safety in the wake of the tragic event that took a young life.