Carlin Lichon Cherron Hawthorne, 22, was killed in a parking lot shooting on North Portland Avenue in Oklahoma City in the early morning of April 7, 2024. While sitting in a vehicle at about 3:36 a.m., Hawthorne — a Black female who worked at Costco and had been studying to become an attorney — was struck by gunfire and later died at a nearby hospital. Authorities say she was an innocent bystander and not involved in the dispute that sparked the violence.

The shooting began after a fight in the parking lot escalated into an exchange of gunfire. Three other people suffered non-life-threatening gunshot wounds. Investigators describe the inquiry as in its early stages; no arrests have been announced and no suspects are in custody. Carlin, born September 2, 2001, was a member of Dickson Baptist Church and is remembered for her loving nature and clear sense of direction.

If anyone witnessed the April 7 incident or has information about the people involved, please contact the Oklahoma City Police Department.