Oklahoma City was buzzing with energy. Thunder fans had just witnessed history—an NBA Finals Game 7 win over the Indiana Pacers.
The streets near the Paycom Center were flooded with celebrations as the city basked in its first-ever NBA title.
But in the middle of all the cheers and confetti, a 14-year-old boy was shot, turning a moment of joy into one of tragedy.
Arrest Made Weeks After the Shooting
It took a bit of time, but police finally got their man.
Kaziya Penn, a 20-year-old from Midwest City, has now confessed to pulling the trigger during that chaotic night on June 22.
He’s been charged with assault and battery with a deadly weapon.
The shooting happened at Scissortail Park, just as thousands of fans were pouring into the streets post-game.
How Police Tracked Down the Suspect
Penn wasn’t arrested immediately. In fact, police said they couldn’t find any leads right after the shooting.
But just two days later, Penn was pulled over near the same area—right by the Paycom Center. During that stop, police found him carrying a Glock 9mm illegally.
That same gun would soon be matched to the bullet used in the June 22 shooting, thanks to the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network.
The Turning Point: A Search Warrant and a Confession
Fast forward to early August: police served a search warrant at Penn’s home.
Not long after, he was in custody and reportedly admitted to the shooting.
According to the Oklahoma City Police Department, Penn said he opened fire while trying to protect his cousin, who was allegedly being attacked by several people.
He admitted to shooting into the group during the scuffle.
Cell phone data also placed him in the area at the exact time of the shooting, strengthening the case against him.
The Young Victim’s Condition
Thankfully, the 14-year-old boy who was hit is expected to fully recover.
He was shot in the leg and rushed to the hospital shortly after the incident.
According to court documents obtained by KOCO 5 News, the boy told investigators that he had no idea who shot him at the time.
Caught on Camera—But Not in the Way You’d Expect
Interestingly, local news crew members from the Fox affiliate were just outside the arena, preparing for a live broadcast when gunfire erupted.
Their footage didn’t capture the shooter but did record the chaotic aftermath as the crowd scattered.
A Growing Problem in a City on the Rise
Oklahoma City, despite its relatively modest population of around 700,000, has seen a troubling spike in violence.
In 2024 alone, homicides rose to 78—a three-year high. Gun violence, unfortunately, is becoming a common thread during what should be joyful, unifying moments.
Championship Celebrations Marred by Gunfire
Oklahoma City isn’t the only place to experience tragedy during a championship celebration.
Back in 2019, a shooting broke out during the Toronto Raptors’ NBA title parade, leaving four people injured.
And in February 2024, tragedy struck in Kansas City when gunfire during the Chiefs’ Super Bowl parade killed one person and wounded 22 others.
A Sobering Reminder
The shooting that followed the Thunder’s historic win serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers lurking even in the most celebratory moments.
While the city may cherish its NBA title, it must also face the pressing issue of public safety—especially when large crowds gather to share in a communal high.
