CRIME

Tulsa County District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler stabbed; daughter arrested

Jana Hayes
Oklahoman
Tulsa County District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler, shown in 2017, was stabbed multiple times Tuesday. His daughter, Jennifer Kunzweiler, was arrested in connection with the incident.

TULSA — Tulsa County District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler was stabbed multiple times Tuesday but is recovering at home, his office said.

The DA's daughter, Jennifer Kunzweiler, 30, was arrested in the stabbing incident.

“Unfortunately today, I found myself in a situation that I hoped would never happen," Kunzweiler, 60, said in a statement.

Police Capt. Richard Meulenberg said Jennifer Kunzweiler was taken to a hospital after her arrest at the family home, where she also lived. She was treated for self-inflicted cuts sustained before she stabbed her father in the arm and midsection.

A motive for the stabbing remained under investigation, according to Meulenberg.

“We know there is some mental illness here,” Meulenberg said, “but we haven't interviewed her" to question her about a motive.

Jennifer Kunzweiler remained hospitalized Wednesday and will likely face a charge of domestic violence with a dangerous weapon when released, Meulenberg said.

Kunzweiler was first elected as district attorney in 2014, after serving as the chief of criminal prosecution under former Tulsa County DA Tim Harris. He was reelected in 2018. He was automatically reelected this year when he didn't draw an opponent.

"The entire Kunzweiler family would appreciate your prayers and concerns as they go through this struggle," his office said. "They would also appreciate your concern for their privacy at this time."

He is married to a Tulsa veterinarian, Dr. Christine Kunzweiler. They have three daughters. He received his bachelor of science from the University of Missouri in 1984 and his juris doctorate from the University of Tulsa School of Law in 1988.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.