Tulsa Woman Injured in Domestic Violence Shooting at RiverWest Apartments; Suspect Raymond Howze in Custody
In the early hours of Sunday morning, a terrifying domestic violence incident unfolded at the RiverWest apartment complex in Tulsa, Oklahoma, leaving one woman injured and a community shaken. Tulsa Police Department officers responded swiftly to the scene following reports of gunfire in the typically quiet residential complex nestled near the Arkansas River.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a female victim suffering from three apparent grazing gunshot wounds. Though the injuries were not considered life-threatening, the violent nature of the incident prompted an immediate and intense investigation. Authorities were able to render aid and secure the scene quickly.
The suspect, identified as 35-year-old Raymond Howze, was located shortly thereafter and taken into custody without further incident. According to preliminary reports, Howze had allegedly forced entry into the apartment of his ex-girlfriend in the early morning hours. A confrontation ensued, during which he reportedly produced a firearm and opened fire, striking the female victim—believed to be the ex-girlfriend or someone close to her—with three rounds that fortunately only grazed her.
Tulsa Police confirmed that the incident stemmed from a domestic dispute that escalated to extreme violence. While the exact nature of the relationship between Howze and the victim is still being clarified, investigators believe this act of violence may have been premeditated, given the forced entry and use of a firearm.
Emergency medical services treated the woman at the scene and transported her to a nearby hospital for further evaluation. Authorities stated that she is expected to recover, though she remains deeply traumatized by the ordeal. The victim’s name has not been publicly released in accordance with privacy protocols for survivors of domestic violence.
Residents of the RiverWest complex reported being startled awake by the sound of gunshots. One neighbor, who asked not to be identified, recounted hearing shouting followed by three rapid pops. “It was so scary,” they said. “You don’t expect something like this to happen right next door.”
Raymond Howze is currently being held at the Tulsa County Jail. Charges against him are pending and likely to include aggravated domestic assault with a deadly weapon, burglary, unlawful possession of a firearm, and attempted murder.
Tulsa Police have reassured the public that there is no ongoing threat to the community, and they are continuing their investigation into the circumstances leading up to the shooting. Detectives are urging anyone with additional information about the incident or the events leading up to it to come forward.
This latest incident once again underscores the ongoing crisis of domestic violence in communities across the nation. Advocacy organizations in Tulsa, such as DVIS (Domestic Violence Intervention Services), have reiterated the importance of community awareness and support for those in abusive or potentially dangerous relationships.
As the investigation moves forward and the victim begins her road to recovery, authorities are emphasizing the need for early intervention in domestic situations before they escalate into violence.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, help is available. You can reach out to DVIS at (918) 743-5763 or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Every call is confidential and could be the first step toward safety and healing.