Second Suspect Arrested in Deadly Juneteenth Shooting in Tulsa; 21-Year-Old Darmontre Peters in Custody
TULSA, OK — A major development has emerged in the ongoing investigation into the deadly shooting that marred Tulsa’s Juneteenth celebration last month. On Tuesday, July 2, 2025, Tulsa Police announced the arrest of a second suspect, 21-year-old Darmontre Peters, in connection with the tragic incident that left one person dead and at least three others wounded.
Peters was apprehended by officers with the Tulsa Police Fugitive Warrants Unit following an intensive search and coordination with other law enforcement agencies. Authorities say he was taken into custody without incident and is currently being held at the Tulsa County Jail on multiple charges, including first-degree murder, multiple counts of assault with a deadly weapon, and participation in a gang-related shooting.
The shooting took place on the evening of Saturday, June 15, 2025, during the city’s annual Juneteenth celebration—a cherished event meant to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and promote unity, freedom, and cultural pride. Thousands had gathered in downtown Tulsa for the festivities when gunfire suddenly erupted near the main stage around 9:30 p.m., sending attendees fleeing in panic.
One man, later identified as 28-year-old Anthony “Tony” Reynolds, was killed in the gunfire. He was a beloved father of two and well-known community member. Several others sustained non-life-threatening injuries, including a teenager and two adult bystanders. Emergency responders provided aid on the scene before rushing victims to area hospitals.
According to police, the shooting was the result of a dispute between rival groups that escalated into violence. Peters, along with another individual arrested shortly after the shooting, is believed to have fired into the crowd during the confrontation. Investigators used surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, and forensic evidence to identify Peters as a suspect.
“We are committed to seeking justice for the victims and restoring a sense of peace to the community,” said Tulsa Police Chief Wendell Franklin during a press briefing on Tuesday. “Juneteenth should be a celebration of liberation and unity—not marred by senseless violence. We will not tolerate those who choose to bring harm to peaceful events.”
The arrest of Peters comes as a relief to many in the Tulsa community, especially to the family of Anthony Reynolds, who have been vocal in their call for accountability and justice. In a statement released through a family spokesperson, the Reynolds family said:
“We are grateful for the efforts of the Tulsa Police Department in making this second arrest. While nothing can bring Tony back, knowing those responsible are being held accountable brings a measure of comfort. Tony was a light in our lives, and we want his memory to stand for love, not violence.”
Local leaders and activists echoed the sentiment, calling for unity in the wake of the tragedy.
“This act of violence doesn’t define our community,” said City Councilwoman Vanessa Hall-Harper. “We will continue to stand together, support one another, and work to ensure that events like Juneteenth remain safe and celebratory.”
The Tulsa Police Department continues to investigate the incident, with detectives not ruling out additional arrests. Community members are being encouraged to come forward with any information that may help bring closure to the case.
In response to the shooting, city officials have begun reviewing public event security protocols, including increased presence of law enforcement at large-scale gatherings and more robust surveillance and monitoring efforts.
Meanwhile, plans are underway to hold a community vigil in honor of Anthony Reynolds and the victims of the shooting. Organizers say the event will be an opportunity to grieve, heal, and reaffirm the community’s commitment to peace and justice.
As the legal process moves forward, Tulsa remains united in mourning, remembrance, and a shared determination to confront violence while preserving the spirit of celebration that Juneteenth represents.