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McAlester Today
By the People, for the People
Oklahoma Carries Out First Execution of 2026 for Double Killing
Kendrick Simpson, 45, was executed for a 2006 drive-by shooting that killed two men.
Published on Feb. 12, 2026
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Oklahoma has carried out its first execution of the year, putting to death Kendrick Simpson, 45, who was convicted of killing two men in a 2006 drive-by shooting in Oklahoma City. Simpson admitted to the killings during a clemency hearing last month, apologizing to the victims' families.
Why it matters
Oklahoma has faced scrutiny over its use of the death penalty in recent years, with concerns raised about the state's execution protocols and the fairness of the justice system. This case highlights the ongoing debate around capital punishment and whether it is an appropriate response for even the most serious crimes.
The details
On the night of the killings in January 2006, prosecutors say Simpson had placed an assault rifle in the trunk of a vehicle that he and his friends drove to a club in northwest Oklahoma City. After an altercation at the club between Simpson and one of the victims, Simpson and his friends followed the victims from a nearby gas station, and Simpson pointed the gun out the window and fired about 20 rounds into their car, killing both victims.
- On January 12, 2006, the drive-by shooting occurred.
- Last month, Simpson admitted to the killings and apologized during a clemency hearing.
- On February 12, 2026, Simpson was executed by lethal injection at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary.
The players
Kendrick Simpson
A 45-year-old man convicted of killing two men in a 2006 drive-by shooting in Oklahoma City.
Anthony Jones
A 19-year-old man killed in the 2006 drive-by shooting.
Glen Palmer
A 20-year-old man killed in the 2006 drive-by shooting.
Crystal Allison
The sister of victim Glen Palmer, who wrote a letter to the parole board supporting Simpson's execution.
Gentner Drummond
The Oklahoma Attorney General who commended the parole board for denying Simpson clemency, calling him a "ruthless and violent killer."
What’s next
The state of Oklahoma is expected to carry out additional executions in 2026 as part of its ongoing use of capital punishment.
The takeaway
This execution highlights the ongoing debate around the death penalty in the United States, with concerns about fairness, mental health, and whether it serves as an effective deterrent or punishment for even the most serious crimes.
