In the late hours of a September evening in Ardmore, Oklahoma, the life of 18-year-old Carmell Jamar 'Mell' Stoliby was tragically cut short. On September 19, 2015, the young Black / African American man was shot and killed in the 300 block of Monroe Street. Known for his vibrant personality, Carmell was a student at Ardmore High School where he was well-known and actively involved in various activities.
His sudden and violent death sent shockwaves through his family, friends, and the wider community.
The events that led to the fatal shooting reportedly began with an argument between Stoliby and one of the suspects earlier in the week. This altercation escalated around 9 p.m. on that Saturday night, culminating in the shooting. The swift response of law enforcement, aided by a witness tip describing the suspects and their vehicle, led to the quick identification and arrest of two male juveniles in connection with the homicide. Both suspects were also students at Ardmore High School.
The two teenagers were subsequently charged with first-degree murder. One of the suspects, 17-year-old Tyrik Cohee, was charged as an adult. In 2015, Cohee was sentenced to 25 years in prison for his role in Carmell Stoliby's death. The case brought the issue of youth violence to the forefront of the community's consciousness, leaving a lasting impact on all those who knew the young man whose life was so abruptly ended.
