TULSA -- Several witnesses in a West Tulsa neighborhood, watched a tragedy unfold Sunday afternoon. Police said 41 year-old Officer Steve Dickson, shot and killed 72 year-old Ronald Massengale, after Massengale fired his shot gun at officers.
“I think all the video evidence and the witness evidence, even independent witnesses saying we had no choice but to shoot him,” said Tulsa Homicide Sgt. Dave Walker.
Police then found Massengale’s wife, Jacqueline, and 3 dogs dead inside their home near the 4000 block of West 8th St. They said all had been shot, with Ronald Massengale's handgun. Neighbors said the couple was known for being reserved, and they're shaken by the news.
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"His wife always stayed inside seemed kind of like she was sheltered from everybody. He was always outside, but she never was outside,” said neighbor Candace Stretch.
Police said the deaths push our homicide record even higher this year, marking numbers 77 and 78. The couple also represents the city's 15th domestic related murder in 2016. They said that nearly doubles last year's figure when there were nine.
“15 is way too many for a town like us,” said Sgt. Walker.
Domestic violence experts said Oklahoma ranks 4th in the nation for women killed by men in intimate relationships.
“Domestic violence is in your community it’s often hidden, it’s behind closed doors it’s something that sort of thrives in secrecy,” said DIVIS Exec. Dir. Tracey.
Police said they had never been called out to the Massengale’s home in the past for domestic related issues. Officers say the investigation is still ongoing.
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