Oklahoma City Police solve 2003 cold case murder

Investigators identify suspect in 19-year-old homicide of Leon Samuel Harris

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Investigators with the Oklahoma City Police Department have solved a cold case from 2003, in which 42-year-old Leon Samuel Harris was found deceased after being stabbed in the 1600 block of Westwood Blvd. on June 14, 2003.

Why it matters

Solving long-unsolved homicide cases can provide closure for victims' families, while also potentially preventing future crimes by identifying and apprehending dangerous suspects. This case highlights the persistence of Oklahoma City police in pursuing justice for cold cases.

The details

According to the City of Oklahoma City, police responded to the scene in 2003 where Harris was found deceased after being stabbed. The case went cold for nearly two decades until investigators were able to identify a suspect through DNA evidence and other investigative work.

  • On June 14, 2003, officers responded to the 1600 block of Westwood Blvd. where Leon Samuel Harris was found deceased after being stabbed.
  • The case remained unsolved for 19 years until Oklahoma City police investigators were able to identify a suspect in 2022.

The players

Leon Samuel Harris

A 42-year-old man who was found deceased after being stabbed in Oklahoma City in 2003.

Oklahoma City Police Department

The law enforcement agency that investigated the 2003 homicide of Leon Samuel Harris and was able to solve the cold case nearly two decades later.

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What’s next

The suspect identified in the 2003 homicide of Leon Samuel Harris will now face criminal charges.

The takeaway

This case demonstrates the importance of persistent police work and advances in forensic technology in solving long-unsolved crimes, providing closure for victims' families and potentially preventing future tragedies.