TULSA, Okla. — A Saturday evening drive turned deadly when gunfire erupted near 35th Street and South Yale Avenue, leaving one woman dead and a man critically injured. Tulsa Police have identified the woman as 32-year-old Heather Martinez.
The shooting occurred around 6 p.m. on August 16, 2025, when officers responded to reports of shots fired near Highland Park in Midtown. Arriving units discovered Martinez and a male passenger suffering from multiple gunshot wounds inside a dark-colored SUV.
Emergency Response
Tulsa Police officers immediately began first aid while waiting for Tulsa Fire Department and EMSA paramedics. Both victims were rushed to local hospitals. Martinez died shortly after arrival, while the man remains hospitalized in critical condition. His name has not yet been released.
Road Rage Suspected
Investigators believe the violence may have stemmed from a road rage incident. Witnesses reported that another vehicle, described as a red sports car, pulled up alongside the victims’ SUV and opened fire before fleeing the area.
Authorities are canvassing the neighborhood for potential witnesses and urging residents to check their security and doorbell cameras for footage that could provide leads.
Crime Scene Investigation
Police closed all northbound lanes of South Yale Avenue between 36th Street South and the 3400 block while the Crime Scene Unit processed the area. Evidence markers were visible along the roadway as detectives collected shell casings and documented the scene.
Officials say the roadway remained blocked for several hours as investigators worked into the night.
Community Reaction
News of Heather Martinez’s death has sent shockwaves through the Tulsa community. Friends and family have begun sharing messages of grief online, remembering her as a loving, vibrant woman whose life was cut short in a senseless act of violence.
“This should never have happened,” one family friend said. “Heather was full of life, and it’s heartbreaking to know she’s gone.”
Police Appeal for Information
The Tulsa Police Department is urging anyone with information to come forward. Tipsters can contact Tulsa Crime Stoppers at 918-596-COPS (2677). Callers may remain anonymous and could qualify for a cash reward if their tips lead to an arrest and conviction.
Ongoing Investigation
As of Sunday, no arrests have been made. Detectives continue reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing potential witnesses. Police stress that this remains an active homicide investigation, and additional updates will be provided as new information emerges.
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