Police: Toddler Struck By Falling Bullet In Okmulgee On July 4

A Bixby toddler was hit by a bullet during a fireworks show July 4 near Harmon Stadium in Okmulgee, according to Chief of Police Joe Prentice.

Police believe the bullet was most likely fired into the air some distance from where the child was standing.

Chief Prentice said the girl was hit in the left shoulder as she stood in the parking lot of a local bank.

"Over the years people have gathered at the bank and the area surrounding it to enjoy the fireworks," he said.

Bystanders initially thought the girl was struck by some falling debris from exploding fireworks, but an emergency room physician identified her injury as a bullet wound. The child was taken to a Tulsa hospital for further evaluation and treatment.

A 7-year-old Virginia boy lost his life in a similar incident when a falling bullet struck him in the head.

"Investigators have few clues as to where the bullet may have been fired," Prentice said.

The family said doctors left the bullet in the toddler's shoulder. She is home recovering.

He is asking anyone who witnessed someone firing a gun into the air during Thursday night's fireworks display is asked to call the Okmulgee Police at 918-756-3511.