Alva Review-Courier -

An argument in Waynoka last weekend escalated into a shooting that left one man dead and the other charged with his murder. Shawn Cox of Waynoka died from multiple gunshot wounds Saturday, Nov. 21. A first degree murder charge was filed against Keith Calistus Melton, 31, of Waynoka, on Nov. 23 in Woods County District Court. This crime is punishable by death, imprisonment for life, or imprisonment for life without parole.

According to documents filed in the case, Melton and his wife Sharon invited some friends, including Cox, to their home Nov. 21. Cox was a co-worker of Sharon Melton. The other guest was another co-worker, Dayra Verduzco-Serrano. The gathering was held in a building or garage behind the Melton residence. The Meltons and their guests had been drinking beer and Crown Royal and smoking marijuana, according to witness statements.

Keith Melton and Cox got into a verbal and physical altercation, and Cox left, walking down the alley. Sharon Melton followed and talked him into returning, according to the affidavit on file. As they returned, Sharon saw Keith pointing his rifle at them. They all returned to the back porch of the residence. A verbal argument ensued, and multiple shots were fired.

Sharon Melton called 911 and reported the shooting. Waynoka Police and Waynoka EMS responded. Cox was taken to the emergency room at Share Medical Center. He was pronounced dead just before 9 p.m. on Nov. 21.

District Attorney’s Investigator Steve Tanio conducted an investigation with assistance from the Waynoka Police and the Woods County Sheriff’s Office, and charges were filed Nov. 23.