NEWALLA, Okla. — The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office has released new details after a deadly Thanksgiving Day shooting that left James Thomas dead and resulted in the arrest of 44-year-old Dustin Foley, authorities confirmed Friday. Deputies say Thomas was found fatally wounded at a home in Newalla, and Foley was later taken into custody at a rural residence in eastern Cleveland County on a first-degree murder complaint.
Deputies Respond to Thanksgiving Evening Shooting
According to Undersheriff Mike Finley, deputies were dispatched around 6:15 p.m. Thursday to a home near South Harrah Road and Franklin Road following reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, deputies discovered a male victim—later identified as James Thomas—with injuries consistent with gunfire.
Emergency responders attempted to render aid, but Thomas was pronounced dead at the scene.
Evidence Leads to Rapid Arrest
Investigators remained at the scene for several hours, collecting evidence and interviewing individuals who were present during the shooting. Based on the information gathered, deputies identified Dustin Foley as the primary suspect.
Foley was located at a rural home in eastern Cleveland County and taken into custody without incident. He now faces a complaint of first-degree murder.
“After searching and interviews, they determined they had everybody involved at the scene located and there’s no one outstanding,” Undersheriff Finley said.
Motive Still Unknown
Authorities have not released details about what may have led to the shooting or the nature of the relationship between Foley and Thomas. It also remains unclear how many witnesses were inside the home at the time of the incident.
“It’s early into the investigation, so we don’t have a whole lot more at the moment,” Finley added.
Suspect Has Lengthy Criminal History
Court records reveal that Dustin Foley has an extensive criminal history in Cleveland County. His most recent arrest occurred in January for multiple felony charges, including domestic assault and battery and assault on an officer.
Foley is currently being held in the Cleveland County Jail, where he has been denied bond.
Investigation Ongoing
The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deadly shooting. More information is expected as detectives piece together the events that unfolded on Thanksgiving evening.
This remains a developing story.
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