A Skiatook man has been charged with first-degree murder after the June 15 death of a woman who was found with a gunshot wound at a home near West Chestnut Place and Osage Street. The victim was discovered under a blanket, and the incident has left the small Oklahoma community in shock.
Details of the Incident
According to Skiatook Police, 49-year-old Chad Weathers is the primary suspect. Police were alerted after Weathers made a 911 call, then abruptly hung up. When officers arrived at the house, Weathers answered the front door. He reportedly told them, “I’ve got a weird one for ya. I shot my girlfriend last night,” as described by Police Chief Jason Willingham.
This shocking revelation has left the Skiatook community reeling. Chief Willingham expressed how rare homicides are in this tight-knit town, noting that the two domestic homicides this year have been particularly jarring.
“We might have one homicide every couple of years or so,” Willingham said. “But two in one year, both domestic in nature, is unusual for us.”
Victim and Community Shock
The victim, whom authorities have not publicly named, was described by the chief as a well-known, respected, and liked member of the community. Her death, coupled with the involvement of someone who had grown up in Skiatook, has deeply affected residents.
Oklahoma’s Domestic Violence Crisis
This tragic incident is part of a broader issue in Oklahoma, where domestic violence homicides have been on the rise. In 2023, the state experienced a record number of domestic violence homicides—122—according to the Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board.
“This type of homicide is especially tragic when you’re talking about domestic violence,” said Chief Willingham. “It makes it even worse.”
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Chad Weathers has been arrested and charged with first-degree murder. He is currently being held on a $5 million bond at the Osage County Jail. During his initial court appearance, Weathers pleaded not guilty. His next court date is set for July 11.
Support for Domestic Violence Victims
If you or someone you know is facing a domestic violence situation, resources are available. Domestic Violence Intervention Services provides a 24-hour information and crisis line at 918-743-5763.
