Service Dog Killed, Another Missing Following Double Shooting at Osage Casino Hotel in Tulsa
TULSA, OK – A tragic incident occurred on April 12 at the Osage Casino Hotel in Tulsa, where a double shooting not only left two people injured but also resulted in the death of a service dog and the disappearance of another.
Blake and Sara Scowden, an Arkansas couple, were staying at the hotel when they heard gunshots outside their room. Upon opening the door to assist, their two dogs, Cora and Busch, ran out toward the woods. Cora, an 11-year-old service dog trained to help Blake, was later found deceased on a nearby porch, having been shot. Busch, a 3-year-old therapy dog, remains missing, and the couple fears he may have also been harmed.
The Osage County Sheriff’s Office has identified 18-year-old Malik N. Sampson as a person of interest in the shooting. A felony arrest warrant has been issued for Sampson, who faces charges including shooting with intent to kill. Authorities are also searching for another unidentified individual connected to the incident.
The Scowdens, already dealing with personal challenges, including Sara’s role as a caregiver for her mother, are devastated by the loss of their beloved dogs. They have expressed their grief and are seeking help in locating Busch. A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist the couple during this difficult time.
The Osage County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about the whereabouts of Malik Sampson or the missing dog to contact them at (918) 287-3131.
This incident has highlighted the deep bond between service animals and their owners, underscoring the emotional toll such tragedies can have on individuals who rely on their pets for support.
