The Tulsa Police Department has announced the arrest of 43-year-old Jose Alcaraz following a shooting at a Christmas party that resulted in injuries to two men near Pine and Vandalia Avenue.
The incident took place early on Christmas morning when police responded to reports of gunfire at a private holiday gathering. According to investigators, Alcaraz attended the event uninvited, which led to a verbal and then physical altercation with other guests. During the confrontation, he reportedly produced a firearm and opened fire, injuring two men before fleeing. This shooting is part of a concerning trend of holiday-related violent incidents nationwide, particularly at social gatherings involving alcohol and disputes among acquaintances.
According to Tulsa Police records, both victims—a 31-year-old and a 37-year-old male—were transported to a local hospital and are expected to survive. The suspect was located at his residence a few miles away and surrendered peacefully after phone contact with officers. Alcaraz faces charges of two counts of Shooting with Intent to Kill, a serious felony under Oklahoma law that carries potential life imprisonment. The department reported handling over 200 aggravated assault cases in 2025, highlighting ongoing efforts to address gun violence within city limits.
Data from the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation indicate that firearm-related assaults in Tulsa County increased by nearly 9% in 2024 compared to the previous year, with more than 1,400 reported incidents. Law enforcement agencies cite interpersonal conflicts and unauthorized gatherings as major contributing factors. Nationally, the Bureau of Justice Statistics reports that nearly 70% of shootings occur between individuals who know each other, underscoring the prevalence of personal disputes escalating into gun violence during social events.
The Tulsa Police Department serves as the primary law enforcement agency for Tulsa, Oklahoma. Founded in 1907, it operates under a structured command with specialized divisions including patrol, investigations, and community outreach. The department’s mission is to protect life and property, prevent crime, and maintain public order through proactive policing and community partnerships. Headquartered in downtown Tulsa, it employs over 800 sworn officers and civilian staff.
