Tulsa, Oklahoma – In a harrowing case that has shaken the community, Carlton Gilford will face trial for the alleged random shootings of two innocent victims. After a thorough review of the evidence, a Tulsa County judge has determined that the prosecution has sufficient grounds to proceed with the case.

The disturbing events unfolded at the Rudisill Library, where Gilford is accused of fatally shooting Lundin Hathcock, and then at a QuikTrip store near Pine and Peoria, where he allegedly killed James McDaniel just minutes later. Gilford is also charged with shooting at a QuikTrip employee and a security guard.

Testimonies from the QuikTrip employee and security guard revealed a chilling encounter where they heard a loud bang outside the store. Approaching the scene, they encountered Gilford, who allegedly fired at them from a mere three feet away. Miraculously, the protective bulletproof glass at QuikTrip saved them from harm.

The lead homicide detective’s testimony provided further insights, with surveillance footage documenting the sequence of events. The footage reportedly captured Gilford approaching Lundin Hathcock at the Rudisill Library, where he allegedly shot him in the back of the head before swiftly fleeing the scene.

Subsequently, the video showed Gilford leaving in his car and arriving at the QuikTrip just moments later. At the QuikTrip ATM, Gilford is alleged to have approached James McDaniel and shot him in the head. Shockingly, he purportedly shot McDaniel a second time, fired at employees, reloaded his weapon, and shot McDaniel in the head once more.

An eyewitness testified that he had interacted with Gilford inside the QuikTrip earlier that day, noting that Gilford appeared to be bleeding from the back of his head. The witness recalled witnessing Gilford walking up behind the victim and fatally shooting him.

One of the initial responding officers testified that his primary task was to ensure the safety of all QuikTrip employees. During this critical moment, he observed a man matching the description of the suspect outside the store.

The officer identified the individual as Gilford and recounted that Gilford allegedly admitted to the crime, stating, “I did it,” and revealing that he had the weapon in his pocket.

In addition to the multiple homicide charges, Gilford faces a hate crime charge. He is accused of targeting both victims due to their race.

District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler emphasized the gravity of the case, stating, “It goes without saying, anytime there is a homicide, in this case, we’ve got two homicides, it has got the attention of the community and certainly our office. We are going to treat it with the seriousness it deserves.”

As this chilling case progresses to trial, the community remains focused on seeking justice for the victims and understanding the motivation behind these tragic events.