A 16-year-old boy, Ryder Lewis, was tragically stabbed to death in Oklahoma City just three days before Christmas. Police responded to the scene around midnight on Monday, December 23, where they found Lewis fatally injured following an altercation.
Authorities stated that the 15-year-old suspect, whose name has not been released due to his age, stabbed Lewis during an argument that turned violent. Sgt. Gary Knight of the Oklahoma City Police Department explained, “It appeared the two knew each other,” adding that the incident stemmed from “an argument that got out of hand”, reported by ABC-affiliate KOCO.
Lewis was pronounced dead at the scene, and the suspect was arrested on suspicion of first-degree murder. He has been taken to the Cleveland County juvenile facility. The incident marked Oklahoma City’s 78th homicide of 2024.
The devastating loss has left the Lewis family and their community reeling. A GoFundMe page has been established to support Ryder’s parents as they face this unimaginable tragedy. “While his parents should be preparing to celebrate Christmas with their teenage son, they’ll be planning his funeral instead,” reads the page.
Described as “a sweet, hardworking kid with a kind heart and a constant smile,” Ryder’s passing has cast a dark shadow over what should have been a joyous season. The page highlights Ryder’s connection to the Oklahoma National Stockyards, where he and his father, Jay Lewis, were active members.
In addition to the GoFundMe campaign, BancFirst locations are accepting donations under “FBO Ryder Lewis, Newcastle, OK” to support the grieving family.
The Oklahoma National Stockyards also paid tribute to Ryder on Facebook, expressing their deep sorrow. “His parents should be celebrating Christmas with their teenage son and are instead planning his funeral,” the organization wrote. “We invite you to join us in support for the Lewis family as they grieve this loss and navigate the days to come.”
Ryder Lewis is remembered by friends and family as a kind, hardworking teenager whose bright future was tragically cut short. As the community mourns his loss, they rally around his family during this difficult time, offering prayers and support to help them endure the holiday season without their beloved son.