A peaceful Friday night in Rockdale, Texas, was shattered by violence as gunfire erupted inside Boogie’s Texas Bar & Grill on April 17, 2026. The incident has left 28-year-old Coby Ward of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, in critical condition and a community in shock.
Coby is currently fighting for his life at a regional trauma center, while his family and friends back home in Oklahoma keep a steady vigil of prayer and support.
The Details of the Incident
According to the Rockdale Police Department, the shooting took place late Friday night at the popular establishment located at 220 South Wilcox Street.
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The Shooting: Witnesses reported a sudden altercation that escalated rapidly. During the dispute, a gunman opened fire inside the bar, striking Coby. The sound of gunfire sent patrons diving for cover in a scene described by onlookers as “pure chaos.”
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The Response: Rockdale officers and Milam County first responders arrived on the scene within minutes. Coby was treated immediately for life-threatening injuries before being airlifted to a specialized surgical unit.
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Suspect Identified: Following a swift investigation involving witness interviews and surveillance footage, authorities identified Raymond James McBride Jr., 23, as the suspect.
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Warrant Issued: Police have obtained an arrest warrant for McBride, charging him with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, a second-degree felony. Law enforcement agencies across Central Texas are currently searching for his whereabouts.
A Community Rallies for Coby
Coby Ward is well-known in his hometown of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, and has built many connections during his time in Texas. He is described by those who know him as a hardworking man with a resilient spirit.
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A Sallisaw Native: In Oklahoma, the community has begun organizing prayer circles and support groups for Coby’s family. He is remembered as a loyal friend who was always ready to lend a hand.
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Medical Battle: Coby remains in intensive care. His family has traveled from Oklahoma to be by his side as he undergoes multiple surgeries to repair the damage caused by the gunfire.
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Outpouring of Support: Social media has been flooded with messages of hope, using the hashtag #CobyStrong, as friends from both Oklahoma and Texas advocate for his recovery.
“Coby is a fighter. He’s got the heart of a lion, and we are all just holding onto hope that he pulls through this. He didn’t deserve any of this.” — A Close Friend from Sallisaw
Seeking Justice and Safety
The shooting at Boogie’s has sparked a conversation about safety in local nightlife venues. Rockdale officials have emphasized that this appears to be an isolated incident resulting from a specific dispute, rather than a random act of violence.
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Investigation Status: The Rockdale Police Department, with assistance from the Milam County Sheriff’s Office, continues to follow leads. They are urging anyone who was at the bar on Friday night to come forward with any photos or videos that might assist in locating the suspect.
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Law Enforcement Appeal: “We are committed to bringing the person responsible for this heinous act to justice,” the department stated in a weekend briefing.
How You Can Help
The family has requested continued prayers for Coby’s recovery. As he remains in critical condition, the primary focus is on his stability and the long road of rehabilitation ahead.
Stay Strong, Coby. The communities of Sallisaw and Rockdale are standing with you in this fight.
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