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Tulsa Killer's Clemency Plea Denied
Raymond Johnson, convicted of double murder, will remain on death row after clemency hearing.
Apr. 8, 2026 at 6:39pm
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A grim reminder of the violence that tore a Tulsa family apart nearly two decades ago.Today in TulsaRaymond Johnson, 52, was denied clemency by the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board on Wednesday. Johnson was convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriend Brooke Whitaker, 24, and her 7-month-old daughter Kya Whitaker in Tulsa in 2007. He will remain on death row following the unsuccessful clemency hearing.
Why it matters
The denial of Johnson's clemency plea means he will face execution for the brutal double murder that shocked the Tulsa community nearly two decades ago. The case has been closely watched, with advocates on both sides arguing over whether Johnson deserves a chance at life or should be held accountable through capital punishment.
The details
Johnson was found guilty of stabbing Brooke Whitaker and smothering her infant daughter Kya to death in their Tulsa home in 2007. Prosecutors argued the murders were premeditated and stemmed from Johnson's anger over the end of his relationship with Brooke. Johnson has maintained his innocence, claiming he was not at the scene of the crime.
- The murders took place on June 23, 2007 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
- Johnson was convicted and sentenced to death in 2008.
- His clemency hearing was held on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
The players
Raymond Johnson
A 52-year-old man convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriend and her infant daughter in Tulsa in 2007.
Brooke Whitaker
A 24-year-old woman who was murdered by Raymond Johnson, her ex-boyfriend, in 2007.
Kya Whitaker
The 7-month-old daughter of Brooke Whitaker who was also murdered by Raymond Johnson in 2007.
What they’re saying
“The Pardon and Parole Board made the right decision today in denying clemency for this heinous crime. Justice must be served.”
— Tulsa District Attorney
“We are devastated by the board's decision and will continue to fight for Raymond's life. This was a miscarriage of justice.”
— Reverend Michael Owens, Johnson Family Spokesperson
What’s next
Johnson's attorneys have indicated they will appeal the clemency denial to the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals. A date for the execution has not yet been set.
The takeaway
The denial of clemency in this high-profile double murder case underscores Oklahoma's continued support for capital punishment, even as the practice faces growing scrutiny nationwide. The fate of Raymond Johnson now rests with the appeals court as his legal team fights to spare his life.
