DA Seeks Death Penalty in Kansas Moms Case

New court documents filed in Texas County case against Tad Cullum and Cole Twombly.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 4:46pm

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The district attorney in Texas County, Oklahoma is seeking the death penalty for Tad Cullum and Cole Twombly in a high-profile case involving the disappearance of two Kansas mothers. Newly filed court documents detail the prosecutors' intent to pursue capital punishment for the two suspects.

Why it matters

This case has garnered significant attention across the region due to the disturbing nature of the alleged crimes and the potential for the death penalty to be imposed. The decision by the district attorney to seek the ultimate punishment has raised questions about the evidence against the defendants and the broader debate around capital punishment.

The details

Cullum and Twombly were arrested last year in connection with the disappearance of two women from Kansas who were reported missing in 2024. Authorities believe the two men were involved in the women's deaths, though their bodies have not been recovered. The new court filings indicate the district attorney is moving forward with plans to seek the death penalty for the pair, who are currently being held without bail.

  • The two Kansas women were reported missing in 2024.
  • Cullum and Twombly were arrested last year in connection with the disappearances.
  • New court documents were filed on March 13, 2026 detailing the district attorney's intent to seek the death penalty.

The players

Tad Cullum

One of the two suspects arrested in connection with the disappearance of the two Kansas mothers.

Cole Twombly

The second suspect arrested along with Tad Cullum in the case involving the missing Kansas women.

Texas County District Attorney

The prosecutor's office that has filed new court documents seeking the death penalty for Cullum and Twombly.

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What they’re saying

“We must ensure that justice is served in this horrific case, and that the perpetrators face the fullest consequences under the law.”

— Texas County District Attorney

What’s next

The judge in the case will hold a hearing in the coming weeks to consider the district attorney's request to pursue the death penalty against Cullum and Twombly.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing debate around capital punishment, as prosecutors seek the ultimate sanction against the two suspects accused of a heinous crime, while defense attorneys and advocates argue against the use of the death penalty.