The ex-wife of an aspiring Oklahoma lawmaker has challenged the official ruling of suicide in his death, asserting that the investigation was mishandled and suggesting foul play.
Barry Christian, 54, a Republican candidate for District 38 in Sayre, was found deceased in his pickup truck in the Sandy Sanders Wildlife Management Area on April 30. He had been reported missing the previous day after failing to attend a scheduled meeting.
A medical examiner subsequently ruled his death a suicide by a gunshot wound to the head. However, his ex-wife, Farrah, has publicly disputed this conclusion, claiming the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigations (OSBI) "botched" the case.
"Barry was right-handed. He 'allegedly' shot himself with his left hand," she stated, raising concerns about the circumstances. "His truck also had several bullet holes on the outside of it. They think he shot his truck before turning the gun on himself."
Farrah Christian further questioned the investigation's thoroughness, accusing the OSBI of not testing his right hand or sleeve for gunshot residue. She also expressed disbelief that her ex-husband would shoot his own truck, noting they were married for nearly 30 years.
"The OSBI even TOLD US they know it was staged," she claimed in remarks published by the Daily Mail. "Let’s face it. Oklahoma politics and law enforcement are as crooked as a $3 bill. Money talks. They’ve obviously been paid off."
Christian's pickup truck was found crashed into a ditch-like area near one of his campaign signs, according to KOCO 5. A hunter had reportedly discovered the vehicle overlooking Fish Creek.
Family members remembered Christian as an adventurous and fun-loving individual who cherished spending time with his children. "He was all about fun," Farrah told KOCO 5. "He wanted to have fun with his kids."
His primary political opponents also offered condolences. Joe Buchanan expressed devastation and offered prayers for his family, while Rick Vernon called Christian's passing "tragic" and stated that his willingness to serve Oklahoma "deserves respect, regardless of politics."
When contacted, the OSBI stated it had no further information, with spokesperson Hunter McKee telling the Daily Mail, "With the MEs [medical examiner's] report complete, we'll present our investigation to the DA's Office for review."
