On the evening of May 1, 2023, 57-year-old Lawson Gratts Jr. was shot and killed at a residence in the 8000 block of NW 72nd Street in Oklahoma City. Lawson, a Black man originally from Kansas City who had become a chef in Oklahoma City, was described as a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend known for his warm personality and sense of humor.

Police found Gratts deceased from apparent gunshot wounds after responding to a reported shooting. The suspect, 22-year-old Treveon Grant, was still at the scene and was taken into custody. Investigators determined Gratts had been in a relationship with Grant’s mother; an argument between the couple became physical, and during the struggle Grant retrieved a handgun and shot Gratts. Grant was booked into the Oklahoma County Jail on a complaint of second-degree murder.

If anyone knew Lawson or has information about the events at that address on May 1, please come forward.