Shooter Faces Second-degree Murder Charge

A 31-year-old rural Sallisaw resident was arrested for second-degree murder Thursday.

Christopher Lynn Collins is accused of the shooting death of Tracy Lee Cardwell, 45, on Oct. 8. Second-degree murder charges were filed against him Tuesday in Sequoyah County District Court, and a bench warrant issued for his arrest. 

At the time, sheriff’s investigators reported Collins said that Cardwell had barged into his home, near the intersection of State Highway 141 and U.S. Highway 59 south of Sallisaw, and was causing problems. Cardwell was taken to a Fort Smith hospital where he later died.

Sheriff Ron Lockhart said Friday, “After interviews with several witnesses and information obtained from the medical examiner’s office the district attorney felt sufficient probably cause was developed to issue a warrant for second-degree murder.

“Investigator Gene Wheat did an outstanding job during the last two months and I appreciate the hard work,” Lockhart said. “Sallisaw investigators also assisted in the investigation and we appreciate everyone's assistance. Mr. Collins was arrested and is currently in the Sequoyah County jail on no bond. When officers made the arrest last night Collins was loading a shotgun when officers made entry into his residence.”

Sally Maxwell, Senior News Director

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