Police searching for suspect after Oklahoma City weekend homicide
Oklahoma authorities are searching for a suspect in a murder who they believe was last seen trying to flee the state.
At 4:40 p.m. on Friday, May 23, the Oklahoma City Police Department responded to a reported stabbing near 1700 S Robinson Ave. There, officers found Richard Curnett, 56, stabbed to death, according to police reports.
After conducting investigations, the OKCPD identified River Curnett, 26, as a suspect. Police interviewed his mother, Deborah Curnett, who said Richard Curnett was her first cousin, and the two "stayed together for about 16 years," according to an affidavit. The three of them lived in several tents at the same homeless encampment, court documents say.
According to an affidavit, Deborah informed officers that River suffers from "severe mental health problems like multiple personalities and is a violent person." She also said that River believed Deborah and Richard "were in a romantic relationship, and River did not like that."
Deborah told police River had prior violent incidents with family members, "never liked" Richard, and had stabbed him in the neck in the past, according to the affidavit.
When the incident occurred, Deborah told police that she screamed and attempted to stop River, which resulted in a laceration to her hand, court documents state.
Documents state that Deborah and another witness claim River "had been planning to do this."
Police say River Curnett fled the scene on foot and was last seen near Will Rogers Airport attempting to leave the state. He has yet to be charged.
According to court documents, River Curnett has been accused of the following:
Murder, 1st Degree
Domestic Assault and Battery with a Dangerous Weapon
Police ask the public to call 911 if they see River Curnett, and do not approach him as he may or may not be armed.
The public may also submit tips to local authorities online or by calling (405) 235-7300 or the Homicide Tip Line at (405) 297-1200.
This story was updated to add new information.
This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKC police searching for suspect after alleged homicide over weekend
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