Tragedy in Checotah: Todd Patterson Fatally Shoots Rachel Stewart Before Turning Gun on Himself, Police Say

CHECOTAH, OK (May 28, 2025) — A quiet neighborhood in Checotah was shaken by tragedy Tuesday after authorities discovered the bodies of a man and woman in what investigators believe to be a murder-suicide. The incident unfolded along 2nd Street, just steps away from a home belonging to relatives of the male victim.

The deceased have been identified as Todd Patterson and Rachel Stewart, both of whom sustained fatal gunshot wounds. A firearm was recovered at the scene, leading investigators to believe that no additional individuals were involved in the deadly encounter.

Law enforcement sources indicate that the shooting occurred in the early afternoon hours. While the final determination of the cause and manner of death awaits confirmation from the Medical Examiner’s Office, preliminary findings point toward Stewart being the victim of a homicide before Patterson took his own life.

Child Found Safe Nearby

In a disturbing twist, police say a child — believed to be Rachel Stewart’s — was found inside a nearby vehicle at the time of the incident. Fortunately, investigators do not believe the child witnessed the shooting. The child is reported to be unharmed and in safe custody.

Neighbors and first responders described a chaotic and heartbreaking scene, with several residents expressing disbelief that such a violent event occurred in their close-knit community.

Complicated Relationship Revealed

In the aftermath of the tragedy, new details have come to light about the relationship between the two victims. Stewart, 32, was a former caseworker for the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS). According to sources familiar with the situation, she had previously been assigned to oversee a case involving Patterson’s children.

What began as a professional connection reportedly developed into a personal relationship sometime after her official involvement in the case had ended. Patterson, 34, was the father of two boys and had been working to comply with DHS directives related to custody and parental responsibilities.

The mother of Patterson’s children told local reporters that she was concerned about the evolving nature of Stewart and Patterson’s relationship, especially given Stewart’s former role in the family’s case.

DHS confirmed that Stewart was employed by the agency from August 2023 until she left the position approximately three weeks before the fatal incident. In a statement released Wednesday, the department expressed sorrow over the deaths:

“This is a heartbreaking situation. We are continuing to work with local law enforcement during the investigation.”

Family and Community Reeling

Todd Patterson’s family has spoken publicly about the incident, describing him as a father who had recently made significant strides in turning his life around.

“He was really trying. He was doing everything he was supposed to do,” a family member said. “We don’t know what happened between them, but this doesn’t feel real.”

Rachel Stewart’s colleagues and friends remembered her as passionate about helping children and families, adding that the news of her death has sent shockwaves through the local social services community.

A neighbor, who wished to remain anonymous, reflected on the couple’s interactions in recent months: “They seemed close, but no one really knew what was going on behind closed doors. It’s tragic for everyone, especially that little child.”

Investigation Ongoing

Police continue to examine evidence from the scene, including surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses. Authorities have not released additional details regarding the events leading up to the shooting but emphasize that they do not believe there is an ongoing threat to the public.

Anyone with information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Checotah Police Department or McIntosh County Sheriff’s Office.

Further updates are expected during evening news broadcasts at 9 and 10 p.m.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or experiencing a crisis, help is available. Contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 for free and confidential support.