Full Notification

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TAFT, Oklahoma (May 31, 2022) – The Oklahoma Office of State Medical Examiner has positively identified the victim in the May 29, 2022 shooting in Taft as 39-year-old Sharika Bowler. Bowler was killed when gunfire erupted during an annual Memorial Day festival in Taft. Witnesses tell the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) that there was an argument before the gunfire. Seven others ranging in age from 9 to 56 were injured but did not sustain serious injuries.

Skyler Buckner, 26, turned himself in to the Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office on May 29, 2022. An arrest warrant was issued for Bucker for First Degree Murder. Official charges will be filed when Buckner is arraigned.

The OSBI investigation is active and ongoing. Anyone in attendance that night, particularly anyone will cell phone video around the time of the shooting, is encouraged to contact the OSBI at (800) 522-8017 or [email protected]. Any information or tips from the public can be helpful to the investigation. Anyone who calls or emails can remain anonymous.