'Nothing But Tragedy Here': Ex-Wife Of Killed Ponca City Man Mourns The Loss Of Her Children's Father

The recently divorced wife of a Ponca City man, Andrew Barton, who was killed on July 13 is brokenhearted for their kids. 

"This was never what we wanted,” said Chelsea Barton. “Never. My children are going to grow up without a father now. My best friend is gone. There's nothing but tragedy here." 

Barton, who said she hoped her husband would return to her family, had spoken to her just 12 hours before he died. 

Police found the 38-year-old with a gunshot wound to his chest. 

Officers arrested 18-year-old Kennis Rhodd in connection with the murder, who is awaiting a probable cause hearing on July 28 before facing formal charges. 

"Nobody's life needs to be taken for any reason,” Barton said. “I don't know the reason, no one will ever know, but nobody's life deserves to be taken." 

According to the probable cause affidavit, a neighbor witnessed the shooting and heard arguing moments before. 

There is no clear indication of a motive. Police are also still searching for a person of interest to interview, but have not declared that other person a suspect.