In the fall of 2012, the community of Clinton, Oklahoma, was met with the tragic news of the death of one of its young members. Chazarae Pete Bearshield, a 24-year-old male also known as “Red Tall Bird,” was found dead on October 23, 2012, near Clinton. Born on October 18, 1988, in Clinton, Chazarae, or “Chaz” as he was known to friends and family, was a resident of Custer County who had been raised and attended schools in both Clinton and Weatherford.
Details surrounding the
circumstances of Chazarae's death remain sparse in public records. While one online source indicates his death was the result of force, there is a notable lack of detailed information regarding the specific cause of his death. Information concerning any potential suspects, arrests made in connection with the case, or any subsequent litigation has not been made widely available in the public domain. The case has been mentioned in online forums for cold cases in Oklahoma, but concrete details about the investigation are not readily accessible.
Chazarae was remembered by his family and community. He had worked in day labor and roofing before taking a position at the Lucky Star Casino's eatery in Clinton. His interests included free-style drawing and writing, and he enjoyed spending time with his younger brothers. Funeral services were held for him on October 30, 2012, at the First Christian Church, and he was laid to rest in the Clinton Indian Cemetery. His passing was a profound loss for his family, which included his grandparents, father, and numerous siblings. His grandfather, Pete Bearshield, who passed away in 2021, had Chazarae listed as a predeceased grandson in his own obituary.
