Lincoln County shooting after suicide call leaves former Oklahoma County lieutenant dead; state investigation underway
What happened
A 74-year-old man was shot and killed by law enforcement in rural Lincoln County on Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, after a 911 call reported he was threatening to take his own life with a firearm. Authorities said the incident occurred near the intersection of East 950 Road and 330 Road, in the Wellston area.
The man was identified as Steven Pence, a former Oklahoma County lieutenant who retired in 2018. The initial call was made by his wife, who told dispatch her husband had a gun to his head. Authorities said a 9-year-old child was also inside the home at the time.
Law enforcement response and escalation
Lincoln County Sheriff Kevin Garrett said one deputy and two Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers responded to the scene shortly before 3 p.m. Sunday. Authorities described a series of contacts that began in a backyard area, including verbal exchanges while the man spoke by phone and repeated statements indicating he did not believe officers would arrive in time.
Upon arrival, officers said the man did not comply with commands to drop the weapon. Investigators said responders attempted less-lethal measures, including beanbag rounds. Authorities reported that the confrontation turned deadly after the man later pointed his gun toward law enforcement, prompting the deputy and troopers to open fire. Pence was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation and administrative actions
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the shooting. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation also responded to the scene as part of the post-shooting response.
All three officers involved were placed on paid administrative leave, which is a standard step following officer-involved shootings while investigative reviews are conducted. Such reviews typically focus on the sequence of events, evidence collected at the scene, and any available video or audio recordings, including body-worn camera footage when present.
Key verified details at a glance
Date: Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026
Location: Rural area near East 950 Road and 330 Road, Wellston area, Lincoln County
Decedent: Steven Pence, 74, former Oklahoma County lieutenant (retired 2018)
Initial call: Report of a suicide threat involving a gun; made by the man’s wife
Other person reported present: A 9-year-old child inside the home
Agencies involved: Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Oklahoma Highway Patrol; OSBI responded
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available by calling or texting 988 in the United States.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional findings are expected as investigators complete evidence review and agency reporting processes.