3 dead in possible murder-suicide at Tinker AFB

By Amy Lester, NEWS 9

Three people are dead in a murder-suicide that caused Tinker Air Force Base to go on lockdown Monday afternoon, authorities said.

A member of the military killed his two children, ages 4 and 8, then took his own life, said Air Force officials.

Oklahoma County Sheriff John Wetsel said it all started around 2:30 p.m. when the children's mother, the man's ex-wife, was at the home. The two had an altercation and she left.

"The ex-spouse had left the residence and she had heard gunshots upon her departure from the residence," Wetsel said.

Tinker Security forces were told about a hostage situation in the housing area. They contacted the sheriff's office who also headed out. About two hours later, at 4:30, the tactical team went in.

"Inside the residence they found three bodies, the body of the man and two children," Wetsel said.

In accordance with Air Force policy, the names are being withheld for 24 hours following notification of next of kin.

The incident is under investigation by Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Office.