On the evening of February 10, 2017, a domestic assault call led Bethany police officers to a residence on NW 36th Terrace. At the door, they were met by 45-year-old James Stephen McMullen, who was armed with a handgun. Officers gave McMullen multiple commands to drop his weapon.
When McMullen did not comply with the officers' warnings, Officer Matt Branscum, fearing for his life, discharged his firearm, striking McMullen multiple times.
McMullen was transported to a local hospital for treatment of his injuries. The following day, February 11, 2017, James McMullen succumbed to his wounds and was pronounced dead. He was remembered by loved ones as a good man, a loyal friend, a loving son, and a remarkably sensitive father.
The Oklahoma County District Attorney's office conducted an investigation into the officer-involved shooting. District Attorney David Prater later announced that the investigation had concluded and that Officer Branscum's use of deadly force was deemed justified under the circumstances. Prater stated that the officer acted reasonably and lawfully in self-defense. During the investigation, Officer Branscum was placed on paid administrative leave but was expected to return to his duties following the district attorney's ruling. No arrests were made in connection with the death of James McMullen.
