The latest search for the remains of 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre victims has concluded with the discovery of three more sets containing gunshot wounds. State archaeologist confirmed that these three sets are among the 11 exhumed during the recent excavation at Oaklawn Cemetery. Two of the gunshot victims showed evidence of munitions from two different weapons, while the third individual displayed evidence of burning.
Forensic anthropologists on site revealed that one victim suffered both bullet and shotgun wounds, while the second victim was shot with two different caliber bullets. Searchers focused on locating simple wooden caskets, as historical records described them as the type used for burying massacre victims.
The exhumed remains will be sent to Intermountain Forensics in Salt Lake City for DNA and genealogical testing to aid in identification. This search marks the fourth since Tulsa Mayor initiated the project in 2018, with a total of 47 remains exhumed so far.
The recent identification of World War I veteran C.L. Daniel from Georgia among the previously exhumed remains highlighted the challenges of identifying gunshot wounds after many years. The ongoing investigation aims to bring closure to families of victims who were murdered and hidden over a century ago.
Efforts to map the graves are underway to determine the need for further searches. The committee overseeing the search expressed gratitude for the continued efforts to find victims' remains and emphasized the importance of bringing justice and healing to the affected families and community.
In a separate development, a new committee has been formed to explore potential reparations for survivors and descendants of the massacre and the affected area of north Tulsa. The 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, a tragic episode of racial violence, resulted in the destruction of Black Wall Street, with hundreds of Black individuals killed, and extensive damage to homes, businesses, schools, and churches.
