Tulsa Killer's Clemency Plea Denied

Raymond Johnson will remain on death row after unsuccessful hearing

Apr. 8, 2026 at 11:39pm

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An extreme close-up of a bloodied knife blade, the harsh lighting and dark background creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic that conceptually represents the violence of the crime.The denial of clemency for a convicted double murderer reignites debate over capital punishment in Tulsa.Today in Tulsa

Raymond 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.

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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

This case highlights the ongoing debate around capital punishment, with advocates on both sides arguing over whether the perpetrator of a heinous crime deserves a chance at life or should face the ultimate penalty. The denial of clemency means the Tulsa community will continue to grapple with the legacy of this tragic double murder.