An Oklahoma man, 34-year-old Travis Christian Wilbur, was arrested on January 26, 2024, in connection with a homicide that occurred earlier in the month in Miami, Oklahoma. The incident took place on the evening of January 5, when an altercation involving multiple individuals near Second Avenue NE and H Street in Miami led to the shooting and death of 27-year-old Matthew Vincent Locastro.
Following an investigation assisted by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) alongside other law enforcement agencies, evidence pointed to Wilbur as the suspect, resulting in his arrest on a First-Degree Murder charge. He is currently booked into the Craig County Jail.
Homicides in Oklahoma are categorized under different charges based on the circumstances and severity of each case. Understanding these distinctions and the legal processes involved can be complex.
Our criminal defense lawyer in Miami is here to explain Oklahoma’s homicide charges. Hiring our attorneys is recommended if you have been arrested or charged with a crime. We will aggressively fight for your rights and help you secure the best possible outcome for your case.
The Spectrum of Homicide Charges in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, homicide charges encompass various offenses, each with distinct elements that the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. These range from manslaughter to murder, with varying degrees that reflect the severity and circumstances surrounding the act.
1. First-Degree Murder
Murder in the first degree is considered the most serious form of homicide in Oklahoma. This charge applies when the act is premeditated, meaning the accused had a deliberate intent to take a life.
The premeditation need not be long-term; even a brief moment of intent before committing the act qualifies. First-degree murder can also apply in cases of felony murder, where a death occurs during the commission of a felony, regardless of intent.
2. Second-Degree Murder
Second-degree murder involves cases where the intent to kill was present but without premeditation. It can also cover situations where the act was not intended to kill but resulted from reckless disregard for life while committing an act that could potentially cause death.
3. Manslaughter
Manslaughter is typically seen as a less culpable homicide charge and is divided into two categories in Oklahoma:
- First-Degree Manslaughter: Homicide is classified as first-degree manslaughter under three specific circumstances:
- When it’s committed without the intention to cause death by someone engaged in a misdemeanor
- When it occurs without a death intent, in a moment of passion, cruelly and unusually, or with a dangerous weapon, unless it happens under circumstances that could make it excusable or justifiable, and
- When it’s committed unnecessarily, either in resistance to an attempted crime by the victim or after the victim’s attempt has failed. This occurs when a killing happens in the heat of passion, provoked by a situation that might cause a reasonable person to become emotionally or mentally disturbed.
- Second-Degree Manslaughter: Every instance where one person causes the death of another through an act, encouragement, or gross negligence, which does not qualify as murder, first-degree manslaughter, excusable homicide, or justifiable homicide as defined in this chapter, is classified as second-degree manslaughter.
The events leading to Matthew Vincent Locastro’s death, followed by Travis Christian Wilbur’s subsequent arrest, highlight just how important it is to have an understanding of Oklahoma’s legal framework regarding homicide.
Whether confronting the legal aftermath of a homicide or seeking defense against related charges, working with a criminal defense lawyer in Miami will ensure you understand your rights and fight to protect them.
The Role of a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Miami
Facing a homicide charge in Miami, OK, can be an overwhelming experience, filled with uncertainty and fear for the future. Here is how a defense attorney can make a significant difference:
Legal Guidance and Strategy
An experienced defense attorney in Oklahoma will thoroughly understand the law and the legal precedents that could impact your case. They can develop a strategy tailored to the specifics of your case, whether it is arguing for self-defense, lack of intent, or challenging the evidence presented by the prosecution.
Navigating the Court System
The legal process for handling homicide charges is complex and fraught with procedural rules that must be followed precisely. A knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected at every turn and that you are treated fairly by the court.
Negotiating Plea Deals
Sometimes, the best action may be negotiating a plea deal with the prosecution. A defense attorney in Oklahoma will have the negotiation skills to secure the best terms for your situation, potentially reducing charges or sentences.
Emotional Support and Guidance
Beyond their legal duties, a defense attorney in Oklahoma provides emotional support and clear guidance during this trying time. They can help ease some of the stress you face throughout the process. They can also set realistic expectations and offer the reassurance needed to face the charges confidently.
Building a Comprehensive Defense
From gathering evidence to consulting with experts, a defense attorney will do everything possible when building your defense. This might include challenging forensic evidence, witness testimony, or presenting mitigating circumstances that could influence the severity of the charges.
Contact Our Defense Attorney in Oklahoma
Being charged with homicide in Miami, OK, is a serious matter that demands serious legal representation. Understanding the charges against you and the potential consequences is the first step in preparing for the legal battle ahead. However, the most critical decision you will make is choosing the right criminal defense lawyer in Miami to represent you.
At Doney Law, PLLC, we understand the gravity of homicide charges and their impact on your life and future. Our defense attorneys in Oklahoma have the knowledge, skills, and resources to provide you with the robust defense you deserve.
If you or a loved one is facing homicide charges in Miami, OK, contact us today to discuss your case and explore your options. With Doney Law, PLLC, you have a defense partner dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for you.
