By Barbara Hoberock, Oklahoma Voice
OKLAHOMA CITY – An Oklahoma County double killer was the first inmate to be put to death this year in the state.
Kendrick A. Simpson, 45, was pronounced dead at 10:19 a.m. Thursday at Oklahoma State Penitentiary in McAlester following a lethal injection, said Kay Thompson, an Oklahoma Department of Corrections spokesperson.
Simpson was put to death for the 2006 shooting deaths of Glen Palmer, 20, and Anthony Jones, 19, following an altercation at an Oklahoma City club.
Simpson fired about 20 rounds from an assault-style rifle into the car carrying the two men and Landon Johnson, who survived.
“Justice has been served for Glen Palmer and Anthony Jones,” said Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond. “Their young lives were taken tragically and far too soon. I hope today brings some measure of peace to their families who have endured unimaginable pain for the past 20 years.”
The Pardon and Parole Board last month declined to recommend clemency. The vote was 3-2.
Simpson apologized to the family members of his victims during his personal appearance before the board.
“Kendrick was a kind, gentle man,” said Rev. Don Heath, his spiritual advisor. “The scared youth who shot and killed two people died a long time ago. He is a new man. He didn’t deserve this. No one does. His last words were to say goodbye to his family and friends in attendance. He was sleepy. He was ready to go. He met his death with peace and dignity.”
