Couple Charged With 1st-Degree Murder In Overdose Death Of Chickasha Teen

Two suspects are charged with first-degree murder in the October 2020 overdose death of a Chickasha teenager.

Lawrence Anderson Jr., 23, and his girlfriend, Krishel Cowan, 25, were charged with murder on April 28 in Grady County District Court.

Anderson Jr. and Cowan are accused of selling Austin Fox, 18, counterfeit oxycodone pills which lead to his overdose early in the morning hours of October 2, 2020.

Anderson Jr. is the son of Lawrence Anderson, the suspect in a horrific triple homicide in Chickasha. In February investigators said Anderson killed Andrea Blankenship, cut her heart out and attempted to feed it to his uncle, aunt and their 4-year-old granddaughter. Anderson’s uncle and his granddaughter were found stabbed to death.

Fox’s death is still fresh for former girlfriend, Andrea Shaw, who said Fox worked briefly as a lifeguard at the City of Chickasha pool.

“He was smart, kind, generous and made you laugh,” said Shaw. “(He) lit up the whole room when he walked in.”

Court records revealed Fox and a friend have purchased blue m-30 tablets from both at least three times.

On the night of Fox’s overdose, investigators state in court documents, he purchased three pills for $120.

Fox was with a friend when he smoked a pill. That friend told investigators Fox was unconscious within 2-3 minutes.

The friend took Fox to a nearby hospital. Fox died a few days later.

“He (Fox) was known very well around here,” said Shay. “Anybody who walked up to him, walked into a room, (and said) ‘Hey Austin, how ya doin’ today bud?’”

The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics said the blue m-30 pill has become more common in the last year and even more deadly. The pill is being found to be laced with fentanyl, sometimes even meth.

“Since May of 2020, this is at least the 11th and 12 victim,” said Mark Woodward, spokesman for the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics. “And possibly, we have even more that are tied specifically to these counterfeit oxycodone blue m-30s.”

Shaw told News 9 Fox purchased pills after recently breaking his arm and several fingers. A decision that ended a life as it was just beginning.

“Why would you take the pills? You shouldn’t have done it,” said Shaw. “Everyone around here needs you, needs you here again to brighten up their day like you did every other time.”

The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics said more arrests are likely.

If you believe a family member or someone you know may have died from an overdose, you’re asked to contact the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics so they can investigate.