TULSA, OK — Community Mourns the Loss of 15-Year-Old Alexander Puentes Following Tragic Church Festival Shooting

TULSA, OK — Community Mourns the Loss of 15-Year-Old Alexander Puentes Following Tragic Church Festival Shooting

TULSA, OK — The city of Tulsa is reeling after a heartbreaking incident that claimed the life of a local teenager during what was supposed to be a joyful and peaceful event. On the evening of Sunday, July 27, 2025, a shooting erupted during a community festival at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in east Tulsa, resulting in the tragic death of 15-year-old Alexander Puentes.

The festival, held annually at the church, is traditionally a family-friendly celebration featuring food, games, and live music. Hundreds of parishioners and neighborhood families were in attendance, enjoying the summer evening when chaos unfolded around 8:45 p.m. According to authorities, a violent altercation broke out near the event’s midway area. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a heated argument followed by several gunshots, sending crowds fleeing for safety.

Tulsa Police responded to the scene within minutes and discovered multiple victims of gunshot wounds. Alexander Puentes, a rising sophomore at East Central High School, was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other individuals, whose names have not been released due to the ongoing investigation, were transported to a nearby hospital and are expected to survive.

An Innocent Life Cut Short

Family and friends describe Alexander as a kind-hearted and bright young man with a contagious smile and a passion for soccer. His coaches say he had dreams of one day playing professionally, and he was known for his dedication both on and off the field. He volunteered regularly at church events and was seen just hours before the incident helping set up tables and assisting elderly parishioners to their seats.

“He was a beautiful soul, just full of life and energy,” said Maria Puentes, Alexander’s mother, in a statement through the family’s attorney. “He loved God, he loved his family, and he loved his community. We are broken.”

Grief counselors have been made available at East Central High School, where classmates and teachers are grappling with the devastating loss. A candlelight vigil was held Monday evening on the school’s soccer field, where hundreds gathered to remember Alexander, lighting candles, laying flowers, and sharing stories of his impact.

Community and Church in Shock

The St. Thomas More Catholic Church, a cornerstone of the east Tulsa community, has expressed deep sorrow over the incident. Father Miguel Hernandez, the church’s pastor, called it “one of the darkest days in our church’s history.”

“This was a sacred space — a festival meant to bring our community together in joy and unity,” said Father Hernandez. “To have violence erupt here, and to lose one of our beloved youth, is beyond heartbreaking.”

In response to the tragedy, the church has canceled all remaining festival events and is holding daily prayer services for the Puentes family and others affected. Community leaders and local officials have expressed solidarity and support for the grieving families.

Investigation and Public Safety Response

Tulsa Police Chief Wendell Franklin held a press conference Monday morning, confirming that detectives are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses. While a suspect has not yet been publicly named, police believe the shooting stemmed from a personal dispute that escalated.

“This was not a random act of violence,” Chief Franklin stated. “But a young life was lost, and others were endangered in what should have been a safe space. We are working tirelessly to bring the perpetrator to justice.”

Mayor G.T. Bynum condemned the violence and pledged full support to the investigation. “The loss of Alexander Puentes is a tragedy that should never have happened. We will not rest until justice is served. Our community deserves safety — especially in places of worship and celebration.”

Calls for Action

In the wake of the shooting, local advocacy groups and faith leaders are calling for stronger community programs and youth intervention efforts to address the underlying causes of violence.

“This is not just about one night — it’s about the conditions that allow violence to fester in our neighborhoods,” said Denise Parker, director of Tulsa Youth Outreach. “We need investment in our kids, mental health support, and opportunities that keep them engaged and safe.”

Remembering Alexander

As Tulsa mourns the loss of a promising young life, Alexander Puentes’s memory is being honored in various ways. A scholarship fund in his name is being established by his school and church to support aspiring student-athletes. His teammates are planning to dedicate the upcoming soccer season to him, wearing armbands bearing his initials.

For those who knew Alexander, the pain of his absence is still raw. But his legacy — of kindness, community, and youthful spirit — will continue to echo throughout the city he called home.

Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact the Tulsa Police Department or Crime Stoppers anonymously at (918) 596-COPS.

If you or someone you know has been affected by this tragedy and needs support, local counseling services and faith-based grief support are available through the St. Thomas More Catholic Church and the Tulsa Crisis Center.