NORMAN — Norman police investigators and the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office arrested two people in the homicide of Patrick Burton, Norman Police Capt. Tom Easley said Friday evening. These persons include a male and a female, neither of whom have been booked or formally charged.
“The investigation remains active, and we appreciate all the assistance we have received from the public, media, and law enforcement regarding this case,” Easley said.
The arrest was made in the area of 29th Street and Sunny Lane in Del City.
Earlier on Friday, Norman police advised they had identified four people as persons of interest in the suspected homicide shooting and arson case that happened earlier this week.
In a statement issued Friday afternoon by Easley, the individuals “attempted to use the victim’s credit cards” around 6 a.m. Wednesday at an area business, some five hours before the body of Burton, age 51, was found at his
Villa Drive residence by Norman firefighters.
The police posted pictures of these persons of interest on the Norman Police Facebook page, resulting in tips from the public which generated new leads for police and led to the arrest, Easley said.
Two persons of interest remain at large. The police have posted pictures of these persons on the Norman Police Facebook page. If anyone recognizes the individuals pictured, call the Norman Police Department at 321-1600 or 321-1444.
Norman firefighters responded to the structure fire call at the residence around 11 a.m. Wednesday. Deputy Fire Chief Jim Bailey said when firefighters arrived, heavy smoke was coming from a roof vent.
After extinguishing the fire, firefighters found Burton, with thermal burns, lying near a bedroom. The family’s dog, Jake, also was discovered deceased in the home.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed Thursday that Burton died as a result of a gunshot wound, and police ruled the death a homicide.
Burton lived in the home with his mother, Tina Burton, who was out of town at the time of the incident, according to police reports.
Investigators believe someone drove Burton’s white 2004 extended cab Chevrolet pickup truck bearing Oklahoma tag 088AXI from the scene. The truck has white, louvered taillight covers, white, louvered covers over the rear side windows, a NASCAR license plate on the front bumper, a cow bell hanging from the rear bumper and a hard, white bed cover.
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