Sallisaw Police Department

08/11/2026

On August 10, the Sallisaw Police Department partnered with Sallisaw Public Schools to conduct a school bus safety operation in areas where bus drivers have reported concerns with motorists failing to stop for buses loading and unloading students.

An SPD officer rode aboard a school bus, with no students present, as the driver made simulated morning and afternoon route stops. When the bus activated its warning lights and stop arm, officers nearby monitored traffic for violations.

We are happy to report that the overwhelming majority of Sallisaw drivers did exactly what they were supposed to do — they paid attention and stopped for the bus!

That is exactly the result we wanted to see.
As school begins, remember that Oklahoma law requires motorists to stop for a school bus displaying its red warning lights and stop signal while receiving or discharging students.

SPD will continue conducting operations like this throughout the school year, especially in areas identified by bus drivers as problem locations. Our goal isn't just enforcement — it's awareness, compliance, and keeping our kids safe.

08/05/2026

07/21/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Sallisaw Police Department continues to investigate the incident that occurred near the Mix Radio Station and Mazzio's Pizza in Sallisaw.

As previously released, officers responded to the area after receiving a report of an injured female. Upon arrival, officers and other first responders located an adult female suffering from a severe neck wound consistent with an apparent edged-weapon injury. She was transported by ambulance to the emergency room before being airlifted to a regional trauma center for further treatment.

The individual who was taken into custody at the scene, ETHAN RUNABOUT, has since been charged through the Cherokee Nation with Aggravated Assault and Battery with a Deadly Weapon.

At this time, investigators have no reason to believe there is any outstanding suspect or ongoing threat to the public.

The Sallisaw Police Department appreciates the public's patience and cooperation throughout this investigation.

07/21/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

This evening, officers with the Sallisaw Police Department were dispatched to the area near the Mix Radio Station and Mazzio's Pizza in reference to an injured female.

Upon arrival, officers and other first responders located an adult female suffering from a severe neck wound consistent with an apparent edged-weapon injury. She was transported by ambulance to the emergency room before being transported by helicopter.

A male who was with the victim at the scene has been taken into custody and placed under arrest.
At this time, investigators have no reason to believe there is any outstanding suspect or ongoing threat to the public.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Additional information will be released as it becomes available and as practical without compromising the investigation.

The Sallisaw Police Department appreciates the public's patience and cooperation.

06/16/2026

In the early morning hours, officers with the Sallisaw Police Department initiated a traffic stop near Casey's General Store. During the stop, the vehicle fled, leading officers on a pursuit that continued into the Jackson Mountain area before the vehicle turned down a dead-end driveway.

Upon stopping, multiple occupants exited the vehicle and fled on foot into a wooded area.

Officers established a perimeter and began a coordinated search of the area. The Sallisaw Police Department was assisted by the Sequoyah County Sheriff's Office during the search efforts.

One suspect was located and identified as Brandon Boykin. Boykin was arrested and transported to the Sequoyah County Jail, where he was booked without incident

05/22/2026

At approximately 3:32 a.m., The Sallisaw Police Department received a call of a trailer stuck on the railroad tracks near Cherokee and Dogwood. Officers responded quickly and assisted everyone out of the vehicle before the train struck the trailer.

The occupants and livestock were not injured. The train crossing will be temporarily closed while the scene is cleared. Please use alternate routes and avoid the area if possible.

The Shurley Street train crossing will be closed as well during this time.

05/17/2026

The Sallisaw Police Department is keeping Fort Smith Police Officer Kyle Newman, his family, and the entire Fort Smith Police Department in our thoughts and prayers following this morning’s tragic incident.
We stand in full support of Officer Newman and all of the brave men and women serving the Fort Smith community during this incredibly difficult time. Incidents like this are a solemn reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face every day in service to others.

We pray for strength, healing, and protection for Officer Newman and comfort for his loved ones and fellow officers.
Please keep all those involved in your prayers.

05/16/2026

The Sallisaw Police Department would like to congratulate Sallisaw Black Diamonds Soccer on an impressive season and capturing the 4A State Title. Your hard work, dedication, and teamwork have made the entire community proud. Congratulations on bringing home the championship, Black Diamonds!

05/12/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sallisaw Police Department
Date: May 12, 2026

Shooting Investigation at Motel 6 on Cherokee Avenue

At approximately midnight on May 12, 2026, officers with the Sallisaw Police Department responded to a reported shooting at the Motel 6 located on Cherokee Avenue in Sallisaw.

Upon arrival, officers located Lucas Blackbird, 42, suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper torso area. Emergency medical personnel responded to the scene and transported Blackbird to a local hospital for treatment. At this time, he is reported to be in stable condition.

Due to the nature of the incident, the investigation has been turned over to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Investigators do not believe there is any ongoing threat to the public at this time.

No additional information is being released at this time.

05/11/2026

This week is National Police Week

A time to honor the men and women who have worn the badge, served their communities, and made sacrifices in the line of duty.

The Sallisaw Police Department would like to recognize not only our officers, but law enforcement officers across Oklahoma and the nation who continue to answer the call each and every day.

Police Week is also a time to remember the heroes who gave their lives protecting others, and to keep their families, friends, and fellow officers in our thoughts and prayers.

We are grateful for the support of the Sallisaw community and proud to serve alongside so many dedicated public safety professionals.

To all law enforcement officers past and present. Thank you for your service, sacrifice, and commitment to keeping our communities safe.