Coby Ward Shooting: Sallisaw Man in Critical Condition After Shooting at Boogie’s Texas Bar & Grill in Rockdale
Coby Ward Shooting News: Sallisaw Man in Critical Condition After Shooting at Boogie’s Texas Bar & Grill in Rockdale
A night out in Rockdale, Texas, turned into a scene of panic and violence after a shooting at Boogie’s Texas Bar & Grill left one man critically injured and led to the arrest of a suspect.
Authorities have identified the victim as 28-year-old Coby Ward of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, who is currently fighting for his life following the incident.
Gunfire Reported Late Friday Night
According to the Rockdale Police Department, officers responded to multiple 911 calls at approximately 11:51 p.m. on April 17, 2026, reporting shots fired at the bar located at 220 South Wilcox Street.
Callers indicated that at least one person had been shot, though initial reports did not confirm the suspect’s whereabouts.
Victim Airlifted in Critical Condition
When officers arrived at the scene, they located Coby Ward inside the establishment suffering from a gunshot wound.
Emergency responders provided immediate medical care before Ward was airlifted by PHI Air Medical to Baylor Scott & White Hospital in Temple, Texas.
Officials have confirmed that he remains in critical condition.
Suspect Identified and Arrested
Following the incident, investigators reviewed witness statements and surveillance footage, which led to the identification of Raymond James McBride Jr., 23, of Rockdale as the suspect.
Police obtained an arrest warrant charging McBride with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, classified as a second-degree felony under Texas law.
Authorities confirmed that McBride was taken into custody without incident around 9:45 a.m. on April 18, 2026, and booked into the Milam County Jail, where he awaits further legal proceedings.
Multi-Agency Investigation
The Rockdale Police Department stated that the investigation involved coordination with:
- Milam County Sheriff’s Office
- Texas Department of Public Safety
Officials continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including what may have led to the incident inside the bar.
Community Reaction
The shooting has raised concern among residents in Rockdale, where incidents of this nature are relatively uncommon. What began as a routine Friday night quickly turned into a traumatic event for patrons and staff present at the time.
Community members are now hoping for Coby Ward’s recovery while also seeking answers about how the situation escalated.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities have confirmed that the case remains active and ongoing. Additional details may be released as investigators continue to gather evidence and piece together the full sequence of events.
Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact local law enforcement.