In a shocking event in a small Oklahoma community, 41-year-old M. Stevens has been charged after shooting two neighbors during a heated argument about land clearing near his property. One victim was seriously injured in the incident, raising concerns about how property disputes can escalate into violence.
On September 13, police responded to a call about gunfire and found a man with gunshot wounds in his lower back. He had been shot while trying to escape. The victim, along with another man who was unharmed, had been hired to clear trees and brush from a five-acre plot next to Stevens’ property.
Witnesses and police footage revealed that Stevens, who appeared drunk, was identified as the shooter. He surrendered to police on the scene and was arrested. Stevens reportedly told officers he was upset about the noise from the chainsaws used to clear the land. He confronted the workers and said one of them gave him “an attitude.” Angry, he returned to his home, grabbed a rifle, and opened fire.
One man was shot, and the vehicle they were using was hit by several bullets. The injured man crashed the vehicle into a tree while trying to escape.
After the shooting, Stevens reportedly called his wife, admitting to the attack and saying he was upset about the land clearing. He now faces multiple charges, including two counts of shooting with intent to kill and three counts of illegal firearm possession. Stevens is prohibited from owning guns due to a past DUI conviction.
Stevens has pleaded not guilty, and his case has drawn widespread attention. The community is shaken, as what seemed like a minor property disagreement turned into a violent crime.
The injured victim is still recovering in the hospital, both physically and emotionally. The trial is set for December 13, and many hope for justice and a resolution that prevents future violence over property disputes. Law enforcement and legal teams are carefully reviewing the case to ensure a fair trial for all parties involved.