Tulsa man convicted of double murder set for execution

Raymond Eugene Johnson to be executed for 2007 killings of ex-girlfriend and infant daughter

Apr. 6, 2026 at 10:25am

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Raymond Eugene Johnson, 52, was convicted in 2009 of murdering his ex-girlfriend Brooke Whitaker, 24, and her 7-month-old daughter Kya Whitaker on June 23, 2007. Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has formally requested that the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board schedule Johnson's execution.

Why it matters

This case has drawn renewed attention to Oklahoma's death penalty policies and the ongoing debate over capital punishment, particularly in cases involving the killing of children. Johnson's impending execution will likely spark further discussion about sentencing, mental health, and victims' rights.

The details

Johnson was convicted in 2009 for the murders of his ex-girlfriend Brooke Whitaker and her infant daughter Kya in 2007. Prosecutors argued that Johnson killed the victims in a fit of rage after Brooke ended their relationship. Johnson was sentenced to death for the double homicide.

  • Johnson was convicted in 2009 for the 2007 murders.
  • Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has formally requested Johnson's execution be scheduled.

The players

Raymond Eugene Johnson

A 52-year-old man convicted in 2009 of murdering his ex-girlfriend and her infant daughter in 2007.

Brooke Whitaker

A 24-year-old woman who was murdered by her ex-boyfriend Raymond Eugene Johnson in 2007.

Kya Whitaker

The 7-month-old daughter of Brooke Whitaker who was also murdered by Raymond Eugene Johnson in 2007.

Gentner Drummond

The Attorney General of Oklahoma who has formally requested that the state's Pardon and Parole Board schedule Johnson's execution.

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What they’re saying

“We must ensure justice is served for the victims and their family.”

— Gentner Drummond, Oklahoma Attorney General

What’s next

The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board will now schedule a date for Raymond Eugene Johnson's execution based on the Attorney General's formal request.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing debate around capital punishment in Oklahoma, particularly in cases involving the killing of children. Johnson's impending execution will likely reignite discussions about sentencing, mental health considerations, and victims' rights.