By Fox23.com News Staff
TULSA, Okla. — Authorities are investigating after an 88-year-old man with terminal cancer was found dead with signs of strangulation on Wednesday.
The Tulsa Police Department said around 8:30 a.m., officers responded to a house near North Gary Place and East Latimer Street regarding a reported death.
The victim was identified as 88-year-old Steven Norman, who had multiple serious illnesses, including terminal cancer.
Officers found suspicious signs and marks around the victim’s neck consistent with strangulation.
Crime Scene and Homicide Detectives responded to further investigate.
Police said the physical evidence at the scene did not match the initial accounts provided by individuals in the home. The death appeared suspicious, potentially a covered-up suicide or homicide.
Witnesses were interviewed throughout the day. The investigation found a man was responsible for the death, and he was taken into custody.
The suspect initially claimed the incident was accidental, but later admitted to intentionally killing Norman. He said it was to “put him out of his misery,” due to the victim’s terminal condition.
Police said the suspect was arrested and booked for first-degree-murder.
The suspect is a tribal member and falls under the McGirt ruling. Detectives will turn the case over to the FBI and tribal authorities will investigation further.
