Drive-By Victim Laid To Rest

By Dan Bewley, News On 6

TULSA, OK -- Police are now saying last weekend's drive-by shooting that killed a 16-year-old was a case of mistaken identity. Donivan Crutcher was laid to rest Saturday afternoon as police continue to search for a third suspect. Investigators believe the three suspects mistook the victim's car for that of a gang member.

On Saturday, family and friends gathered to remember a teen, who everyone says, had a very bright future.

Donivan Crutcher didn't make it to his 17th birthday. The Tulsa teen was gunned down after leaving church last Sunday, the victim of a drive-by shooting.

"Like it's weird because I have never had a friend of mine get murdered and Donivan, I just saw him, it's like you just see somebody and then two days later you find out you'll never get to see them or talk to them again," said Donivan's friend, Rhonisha Southard.

But a soggy Saturday didn't damper the spirit as loved ones gathered to remember. Their stories tell of a young man who dreamed of hosting a radio talk show and a young man who was never shy around girls.

"My daughter would keep him, he was about two, he said 'That's my girlfriend,'" said Donivan's friend, Barbara Shannon.

Fourteen years later, a similar story while riding in a school bus.

"He told all the pretty girls to put their cell phone numbers in his phone. He just passed around his cell phone on the bus, it was funny," said Donivan's friend, Raven Southard.       

Police have arrested Rashad Easley and Antonio Wells. But, investigators say, a third person Vincent Berry is wanted and believed to be the one who pulled the trigger killing Donivan and injuring his brother along with two friends. Police say the suspects thought Donivan's car was that of a gang member, a case of mistaken identity. 

"Parents need to take their job a little bit more seriously when they have children and be involved in their lives so that when they grow up they have regard for other human life," said Terrece Shannon.

But this day was about memories of a young man whose life barely got started.

"He was a good guy and I'll probably never find anyone like him," said Southard.

Police are also looking for anybody who may have helped the suspects after the shooting; they could face charges as well.

A memorial fund has been established for the Crutcher family.  Donations can be made to the Crutcher Family Contribution Fund at any Bank of Oklahoma branch or P.O. Box 6481 Tulsa, OK 74148.

Related Story:

09/12/2008 - Person Of Interest Sought In Fatal Shooting