Oklahoma state Senate candidate Barry Christian was found dead in his truck on Thursday, two days after he was reported missing. The 54-year-old Republican hopeful was discovered at the Sandy Sanders Wildlife Management Area in Beckham County around 9:45 AM local time, according to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI).
Christian was last seen in Sayre, Oklahoma on April 28. The Sayre Police Department received a missing person report the following day. His 2024 gray Ram pickup truck was located inside the wildlife area, and he was found deceased inside the vehicle.
A cause of death has not been released. His body has been transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for an autopsy.
Christian's daughter, Brooklyn, told local outlet News 9 that her father "wanted nothing more than to provide and protect his family" and "lived only for his kids." She said the family is "not sure of everything that happened" and asked for prayers while thanking those who helped search for him.
Christian was one of three candidates vying for the Republican nomination for Oklahoma State Senate District 38.
Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.