Unapproved Party Dispute Leads to Shooting Injuring Over 20 in Oklahoma Park, Report Police

Over the weekend, a park in Oklahoma turned into a scene of chaos as gunfire erupted, resulting in nearly two dozen injuries. Police have now unveiled new insights into the origins of this violent outbreak.

According to authorities, the incident unfolded after a disagreement broke out at an unapproved gathering, which had been organized via social media. This event took place near a campground at Arcadia Lake, just north of Oklahoma City, on Sunday night, as reported by The Associated Press.

Among those wounded, at least three individuals are in critical condition. Law enforcement officers are actively seeking suspects, but no arrests have been made yet.

Jeremiah Smith, an 18-year-old witness, estimated the gathering attracted over 250 attendees. He noted that the altercation that led to the shooting began with a group of girls arguing about boyfriends.

On Monday, May 4, 2026, Edmond fire crews entered Scissortail Campground at Arcadia Lake in Edmond, Oklahoma, in response to the shooting that took place during the party on Sunday evening. (Photo by Alonzo Adams/AP)

“It just started a whole bunch of chaos,” Smith said. 

“Everybody got scared, dudes was panicking, women was panicking, people seeing their friends fight,” he added. 

Smith reportedly heard shots coming from different directions for several minutes as he ran toward the lake, adding that two of his friends were hit by gunfire.

A pavilion at Scissortail Campground in Edmond, Okla., is shown on May 4, 2026, a day after a shooting at a party on Sunday evening. (Alonzo Adams/AP)

At least 18 people were transported to local hospitals with injuries, with one healthcare system reporting victims ranging in age from 16 to 30.

Edmond police revealed Monday that the event was an unsanctioned party that had been promoted on social media — marking the latest viral gathering to wreak havoc on communities across the country. 

While authorities did not provide specific details regarding the planned event, a flyer was reportedly circulating online promising food, drinks and “good vibes, good people” at the park’s pavilion until midnight.

Police talk to two men at the entrance of Scissortail Campground at Arcadia Lake in Edmond, Okla., on Monday, May 4, 2026, after a party shooting on Sunday evening. (Alonzo Adams/AP)

According to Edmond Mayor Mark Nash, the shooting occurred at a park that could be reserved for large groups. 

“To our knowledge, there was no reservation through the parks department,” Nash said, adding, “We’re already taking steps to review and strengthen park operations, permitting processes and security measures.”

A pavilion at Scissortail Campground in Edmond, Okla., is shown on May 4, 2026, a day after a shooting at a party on Sunday evening. (Alonzo Adams/AP)

The shooting came just hours after a shooting at a party in the Texas Panhandle left two teens dead and 10 injured after local authorities said two individuals opened fire at an apartment complex Saturday. 

The Edmond Police Department did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.