A 16-year-old boy from Oklahoma was stabbed to death three days before Christmas.
Oklahoma City police responded to the incident that resulted in the death of victim Ryder Lewis around midnight on Monday, December 23.
Police say the 15-year-old suspect stabbed Lewis after they appeared to be “involved in an argument.”
Lewis was pronounced dead at the scene, according to police.
The suspect was arrested on charges of first-degree murder. He was transported to the Cleveland County Juvenile Facility. People are not identifying the suspect because he is a juvenile.
According to police, the killing was the city’s 78th homicide in 2024.
Sgt. Gary Knight of the Oklahoma City Police Department told ABC affiliate KOCO that the incident was the result of “an argument that got out of hand.”
He continued: “It appeared the two knew each other.”
A GoFundMe page has been set up in support of Lewis’ parents.
“While his parents should be preparing to celebrate Christmas with their teenage son, they’ll be planning his funeral instead,” according to the description. “Ryder’s passing is devastating, & has cast a long shadow on what should be a joyous season — a sweet, hardworking kid with a kind heart & a constant smile, he will be so missed.”
The fundraising page also mentions that Lewis and his father Jay are members of the Oklahoma National Stockyards, a historic livestock market.
In addition to the fundraising page, all Banc First locations will accept deposits addressed to “FBO Ryder Lewis, Newcastle, OK.”
The GoFundMe page reads, “We hope you’ll join us in prayer and action as we rally around the Lewis’ during this time.”
The Oklahoma National Stockyards also paid tribute to the late teen on Facebook, stating that its members are “devastated by the news of his passing.”
“His parents should be celebrating Christmas with their teenage son, & are instead planning his funeral,” the non-profit wrote. “We invite you to join us in support for the Lewis family as they grieve this loss & navigate the days to come.”
Police urge anyone with information about the incident to call (405) 297-1200.