Holdenville Police Seek Public’s Help Locating Joshua Draper in Violent Home Invasion and Assault Case
HOLDENVILLE, Okla. — Authorities in Holdenville are actively searching for Joshua Draper, who is wanted for questioning in connection with a violent home invasion and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon that took place late Saturday evening, August 3, 2025. Draper is considered armed and dangerous, and police are urging the public to assist in locating him while exercising extreme caution.
The incident occurred around 10:20 PM in the 700 block of South Oak Street, where two residents were subjected to a brutal and unprovoked attack. According to the Holdenville Police Department, the suspect forcibly kicked in the front door of the home and entered without warning. Inside, he immediately began assaulting both occupants, escalating to a stabbing that left one man seriously injured.
The male victim, who has not been publicly identified, was stabbed multiple times and sustained life-threatening injuries. He was rushed by emergency responders to a nearby hospital, where he is currently receiving critical medical treatment. A female victim was also assaulted during the home invasion but was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Witness accounts and early investigative efforts quickly led officers to identify Joshua Draper as a person of interest in the case. Draper allegedly fled the scene on a motorcycle, which was later found abandoned in the 800 block of East Main Street, further strengthening police suspicion.
Authorities are emphasizing that Draper should not be approached under any circumstances. “This individual has shown a willingness to engage in extreme violence,” said Holdenville Police Chief Mark Carter. “We are asking anyone who knows where Joshua Draper is, or who may have seen or heard anything suspicious on the night of August 3rd, to come forward immediately. The safety of our community depends on swift cooperation and vigilance.”
The motive behind the attack remains unclear at this time, and investigators are working to determine whether the victims were specifically targeted or if the crime was random. No other suspects have been named, and the case remains an active and ongoing investigation.
As part of the continuing investigation, officers and detectives are reviewing area surveillance footage, speaking with neighbors and witnesses, and following up on leads. Police have not confirmed whether weapons used in the attack have been recovered.
Joshua Draper is described as a white male in his 30s, approximately 5’10” tall, with a medium build. He may still be in the Hughes County area or attempting to flee the region. Authorities stress that any sightings of Draper should be reported immediately to Hughes County Central Dispatch at (405) 379-6627 or by calling 911.
“We know people in this community care deeply about each other,” said Chief Carter. “Now is the time to speak up. If you know something, say something. Your information could save a life.”
The victims’ families have asked for privacy during this deeply traumatic time. Neighbors in the South Oak Street area have expressed shock and concern, with several residents describing the incident as “terrifying” and “out of the ordinary” for the typically quiet neighborhood.
Community members are encouraged to remain cautious and alert while the search for Draper continues. Additional updates will be provided by the Holdenville Police Department as new information becomes available.
If you have any relevant tips or security footage from the area on the evening of August 3, please share it with investigators. All reports can remain anonymous.
This is a developing story.
