PAULS VALLEY, OK – On January 30, 2026, the Garvin County Sheriff’s Office requested the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation to investigate a death by a possible explosive device.
Just after 10:00 a.m, officers with the Pauls Valley Police Department attempted to initiate a traffic stop near North Walnut Street and West Grant Avenue. During the attempted traffic stop, the suspect driver sped away, leading to a pursuit.
The suspect, identified as 32-year-old Derek Davidson, accelerated to speeds over 100-miles-per-hour, almost colliding with several patrol vehicles. The pursuit eventually traveled westbound into Garvin County, where deputies also assisted with the pursuit.
Davidson led law enforcement to his residence near North County Road 3260 and East County Road 1550 in Pauls Valley. Davidson then barricaded himself inside the home, resulting in a standoff with law enforcement.
During the standoff, law enforcement attempted to make contact with Davidson and requested the Chickasaw Nation Lighthorse Police Department Tactical Unit to assist.
As law enforcement continued to try and make contact with Davidson, it was learned an explosive device detonated, resulting in Davidson’s death.
The area was evacuated and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol bomb squad further searched the property and discovered possible secondary explosive devices. Troopers cleared the scene and the OSBI Crime Scene Unit began a comprehensive investigation of the home.
Davidson will be transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for further examination.
This is still an ongoing investigation at this time. The OSBI appreciates the Garvin County Sheriff’s Office, Pauls Valley Police Department, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and the Chickasaw Nation Lighthorse Police Department for their continued assistance with this investigation.
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