Oklahoma State Fair Implements New Youth Policy After Shooting in 2023

OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — The Oklahoma State Fair has a new youth attendance policy this year after a shooting happened during its last weekend in 2023.

On the last Saturday of the fair in 2023, a juvenile fired a single shot inside the Bennett Event Center, hitting a 22-year-old man.

Police believe the two knew each other and it was an isolated incident.

The State Fair said it’s still unclear how the weapon entered the grounds.

This year, the State Fair said all minors should be supervised by an adult.

After 5 p.m., anyone under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or chaperone who is 25 years or older.

An ID may be required, according to the State Fair’s website, and adults can accompany up to five minors.

Adults must also stay at the fair with the minors.

Tour or corporate groups, youth in official fair competitions, or other programs with supervisory practices are exempt from the policy.

Any minors who violate the new rules may be removed from the event.

The Oklahoma State Fair runs from Sept. 12 – 22.