A vibrant young life full of hope and plans ended abruptly when 18-year-old Serenity Sandra Renee Burton was killed early Saturday in a violent crime spree that terrorised parts of the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. The teenager — who had just landed a job and was months away from high-school graduation — was shot at an apartment complex, and her death forms part of a chain of three killings and a police-involved fatal crash. Authorities continue to investigate, and the grieving family is rallying for support to honour her memory.
Crime Spree Ignites — From Moore to Oklahoma City
Law-enforcement officials say the violence began at dawn in Moore, Oklahoma, when gunshots were reported at an apartment complex. Investigators located Burton’s body in the early hours and subsequently tracked the suspect’s path through the metro area, noting multiple car-jackings, shootings, and a high-speed pursuit that ended in a fatal crash and officer-involved shooting. One suspect, identified as 34-year-old Deante Hawthorne, died after colliding with vehicles and being shot by responding officers.
A Bright Future Interrupted
Burton, who had just turned 18 days earlier, had secured her first job and dreamed of becoming a paediatric nurse. Her father recalled speaking with her about her exciting new role only hours before gunfire claimed her life. Her sister, expecting a baby, shared how Burton had been looking forward to being part of the child’s life The family has since launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral expenses and to give her the dignity in loss that her short life deserves.
Investigation Underway, Family Appeals for Support
The investigation remains active, with the Oklahoma City Police Department asking anyone who witnessed the car-jacking or chase to come forward. Meanwhile, the Burton family urges parents and communities to communicate closely with teens and young adults about safety and risks. Her father expressed that although he still leaves voice-messages for his daughter’s number, he must now prepare to honour her life and process the unimaginable loss.
