21-Year-Old Killed in Botched Robbery: 2 Suspects in Custody After Deadly Shooting in Noble-Slaughterville
Noble, OK — A quiet Oklahoma community is reeling after a 21-year-old man was shot and killed during what authorities are calling an attempted robbery gone wrong in the Slaughterville area, just outside of Noble. Two suspects are now in custody as investigators piece together the events that led to the tragic loss of a young life.
The incident occurred late Sunday night near a rural residence off Slaughterville Road. According to the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to reports of a shooting around 10:45 p.m. Upon arrival, they found the victim, identified as 21-year-old Jacob Martin of Noble, suffering from a gunshot wound. Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures, but Martin was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses in the area reported hearing shouting followed by several gunshots.
Authorities believe Martin was the target of a planned robbery that escalated into violence. Preliminary findings suggest that the suspects — two males, ages 18 and 22 — lured the victim to the location under false pretenses before attempting to rob him.
“When the victim resisted, one of the suspects opened fire,” said Sheriff Chris Amason during a press briefing Monday morning. “This was not a random act. The individuals involved knew each other, and we believe this was a targeted attack.”
The suspects fled the scene before deputies arrived but were quickly identified based on witness accounts and security footage from a nearby property. After an overnight search involving multiple law enforcement agencies, both suspects were apprehended early Monday morning without incident.
They have been booked into the Cleveland County Detention Center and are expected to face charges including first-degree murder, attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon, and conspiracy. Their names are being withheld pending formal charges, though officials confirmed both have prior run-ins with law enforcement.
The Sheriff’s Office said additional arrests may follow as investigators continue to examine possible accomplices and whether others had knowledge of the planned robbery.
Jacob Martin’s family described him as a kind and ambitious young man who had recently started a new job and was working toward enrolling in college. “He had big dreams and a big heart,” said his older sister, Melissa Martin. “This wasn’t supposed to be his story.”
Friends and loved ones gathered Monday night for a candlelight vigil at Noble City Park, where more than 100 people came to pay their respects. Many spoke about Martin’s infectious laugh and his willingness to help anyone in need.
“It’s just heartbreaking,” said family friend Sandra Tate. “He was only 21.
He had his whole life ahead of him.”
This incident has left residents of both Noble and Slaughterville shaken, as violent crimes are relatively rare in this part of the state. Local leaders are urging community members to come together in support of the victim’s family while also calling for vigilance.
“This tragedy is a stark reminder that even small towns are not immune to senseless violence,” said Noble Mayor Phil Freeman. “We’re grieving with Jacob’s family, and we’re committed to ensuring justice is served.”
The Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with additional information related to the case — including any communications between the suspects and the victim — to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the sheriff’s tip line.
As the investigation continues, Martin’s family is planning a public memorial service later this week. A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched to help with funeral expenses and has already raised several thousand dollars in donations.
While justice may be on the horizon, for the Martin family, the pain of losing a beloved son and brother is just beginning.
