A tragic shooting during a community outreach event at a local church has claimed the life of 15-year-old Alexander Puentes, according to the Tulsa Police Department.
The incident occurred on the evening of July 27, 2025, at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, located near 27th Street and 129th East Avenue. Officers were called to the scene around 9:10 p.m. after reports of a shooting.
When they arrived, officers found Puentes suffering from a gunshot wound to the stomach. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he died a few hours later from his injuries.
Preliminary investigation indicates that the shooting stemmed from an earlier altercation that spilled over into the church’s community outreach event. During the gathering, another teenager confronted Puentes, and the dispute escalated into a physical fight. The suspect then pulled out a firearm, shot Puentes, and fled the scene.
Tulsa detectives have since identified the teenage suspect and are actively working to locate and arrest the individual.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have stated that more information will be released as it becomes available. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Tulsa Crime Stoppers.