An 18-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a deadly shooting at a nighttime party beside Arcadia Lake in Oklahoma on May 3. The tragic incident left one woman dead and 22 others wounded. Edmond police identified the suspect as Jaylan Amhad Davis, a member of the North Highland Piru gang. Davis turned himself in after the shooting, which erupted during a confrontation at a gathering advertised as "Sunday Funday" near the lake. The police investigation revealed that a fight, which started as an argument between two women, escalated into a violent gang-related altercation.
Who is Jaylan Amhad Davis?
Jaylan Amhad Davis, the alleged shooter, was involved in a violent incident that led to the death of 18-year-old Avianna Smith-Gray. According to reports, the confrontation began between two women, although it remains unclear whether they were affiliated with either of the gangs involved. As the situation intensified, gunfire broke out, and at least 80 rounds were discharged. Davis, a known member of the North Highland Piru gang, has a history of criminal offenses, including charges of firearm possession and robbery. He was adjudicated as a juvenile and youthful offender prior to this incident.
Felony murder charges against suspect
Following the shooting, Davis was initially charged with assault with a deadly weapon. However, after the death of Smith-Gray, Oklahoma County District Attorney Vicki Behenna confirmed that Davis would face felony murder charges. He was placed in jail with a bond set at $1 million. During a press conference, Edmond Police Chief J.D. Younger stated that while one suspect had been apprehended, the investigation was ongoing, with police suspecting the involvement of a second individual. The authorities are actively searching for this second suspect.
What happened at the 'Sunday Funday' party?
The chaotic shooting unfolded around 9 p.m. at a popular location near Arcadia Lake, which is known for boating, fishing, and swimming activities. According to Edmond police spokesperson Emily Ward, multiple calls reporting gunshots were received by authorities during the event. The gathering, attended by young people, quickly turned into a violent scene. Among the 23 people shot, six were juveniles, the youngest being only 15 years old. One victim, Smith-Gray, succumbed to her injuries two days later. Police believe that at least one more person was involved in the shooting, and they continue to search for additional suspects.
As the investigation progresses, Edmond police are working diligently to piece together the events of that night and determine the full extent of the violence that unfolded at what was meant to be a fun and casual party by the lake.
