Tulsa Police Chief Creates Gun Violence Task Force in Response to Juneteenth Festival Shooting, Weekend Shootings Involving Teens

In response to a troubling surge in gun violence that has wounded over 16 individuals, including teens, Tulsa leaders unveiled a strategy on Monday, highlighting new curfews, task forces, and community engagement to address deepening concerns about public safety.

Monday, June 23rd 2025, 3:43 pm

By: David Prock

TULSA, Okla. -

Tulsa Police Chief Dennis Larsen joined Mayor Monroe Nichols on Monday to address a recent wave of gun violence in the city, including a deadly shooting during the Juneteenth Festival in the Greenwood District.

Chief Larsen spoke about a series of incidents that left multiple teens injured and resulted in one death.

"At four separate incidents, starting at Cry Baby Hill, the Bradford Apartments, followed by a warehouse out east, and the Juneteenth Festival. More than 16 Tulsans, many of them teenagers [were injured] and one young man lost his life. These tragedies weigh heavily on all of us, at the front of this room as they do all the citizens of Tulsa," said Larsen.

When asked if any of the weekend's violence could be gang-related, Larsen said yes, but did not elaborate.

"We have several entities that are at odds with each other right now. But, until the investigation is concluded and charges are filed, I won't go into specifics," he said.

During Monday's news conference, Mayor Nichols announced a mandatory curfew for the downtown area within the IDL, effective from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. for anyone under the age of 18. The ordinance could take effect Thursday, June 26, if approved by the city council on Wednesday.

Chief Larsen announced the formation of a new task force that will increase focus on downtown violence and enforcement of the planned curfew.

"I'm announcing today the formation of a task force, which will focus on those bringing violence into our community. In addition to our officers working their assigned districts, I will be focusing elements of three divisions, street crime units, members of our special investigation division, our crime analysts, and our skilled forensic scientists," said Larsen. "They will work in close cooperation with our state and federal partners, along with the Tulsa County Sheriff's Office, the Tulsa County District Attorney, and the U.S. Attorney," he said.

Chief Larsen went on to say that the Tulsa Police force would be increasing its presence at large gatherings within the city.

"To keep Tulsans safe, we will be enhancing our presence at large gatherings. Working with community leaders and engaging with parents to prevent our youth from getting caught in these types of dangerous situations," said Larsen. " Our success rate significantly increases when the community comes together in a united force."