Investigation underway as 17-year-old 'accidentally' shoots and kills Seely Rudolph while sitting in car

Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.

TULSA, OKLAHOMA: The Tulsa Police Department is currently looking into a deadly shooting incident involving a 17-year-old assailant. The incident occurred at approximately 2:15 a.m. on January 14 in the vicinity of 31st and 129th E Ave, according to 2News.

Upon arriving at the scene, law enforcement responded to a reported shooting and discovered that 18-year-old Seely Rudolph had sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the head.

Tulsa Police Department continues the investigation

Authorities have apprehended a 17-year-old individual, whose identity has not been disclosed, in connection with the shooting and death of an 18-year-old in Tulsa over the weekend.

According to the Tulsa Police, the 17-year-old informed detectives that the shooting of the victim, Seely Rudolph, was accidental.

The Tulsa Police Department posted on their social media account, X, on January 16 (formerly known as Twitter) and wrote: "HOMICIDE ARREST On 1/14/2024, a 17yo male was arrested after shooting and killing 18yo Seely Rudolph inside of a vehicle near 31st and 129th E. Ave. The 17yo admitted to the shooting, claimed he was playing with the gun at the time."

Officers discovered the 17-year-old victim at a nearby residence, where he had sought help. According to the Tulsa Police, the firearm used in the homicide was recovered at that location.

The accused was playing with the gun 

As per KTLU, investigators reported that the 17-year-old, along with Rudolph and another woman, were all inside a vehicle before the shooting occurred. The suspect stated that he was playing with the gun in the back seat when it accidentally fired, striking Rudolph in the head.

As per the police statement, the 17-year-old asserted that he obtained a 1911 handgun with a .45 semi-automatic from a different acquaintance. No reports of theft or missing firearms have been filed for the pistol.

The 17-year-old is currently in custody, and the District Attorney's office is in the process of determining the charges that should be brought against the teenager.