COWETA, Okla. – Two people were discovered dead with gunshot wounds inside a home near 11th and Highway 51 on Sunday, Dec. 1. Muscogee Nation Lighthorse Police identified the victims as Jimmy and Jaclyn Maxey. The victims were discovered by their three children after they came home from church. The children contacted their aunt, who immediately reported the discovery to police.
Coweta Police Chief Mike Bell stated that two of the children were under the age of 10 years old. He also stated that Muscogee Nation Lighthorse took over the investigation because the deceased victims were tribal citizens.
Lighthorse Investigators and the Nation were unable to confirm the tribal citizenship status of the parents and children at this time due to the sensitive nature of the case. However MCN Press Secretary Jason Salsman said that in order for Lighthorse to be involved in the ongoing investigation that would mean someone involved would have to be a Mvskoke citizen.
Salsman noted that although the motive for the murders has not been identified yet, this time of year can be hard for those struggling with mental health.
“This time of year the holidays are really a joyous time for a lot of people, but for some people this is a very hard time,” Salsman said. “If you’re out there having a hard time during the holidays there are people that will talk to you. We have resources at the Nation. Call 988, or reach out to our behavioral health department to speak to a representative. You’re not alone, you have resources, the Nation cares about the people and citizens that live within the reservation.”
The phone number, 988, is the 24/7 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Counselors are available to talk, text or instant message. Conversations are free and confidential. The Nation also offers behavioral health services, more information can be found on the health department’s website. MCN Health can also be reached at 918-756-0310.
Lighthorse is currently waiting on a report from the medical examiner’s office. According to Salsman, once the report has been completed more details from the investigation will be provided. Mvskoke Media will have ongoing coverage as more details become available.
