A man has been executed by lethal injection at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary almost 20 years after orchestrating the brutal assault and robbery of his co-worker at a Tulsa convenience store.
Michael Lee Wilson, 38, was convicted in the killing of Richard Yost, 30, who aspired to one day manage the Quiktrip store. Wilson, who was convicted of first-degree murder, was the third person executed for the February 25, 1995, crime; the fourth defendant is serving a life term.
Prison spokesman Jerry Massie said Wilson’s time of death was 6:06 p.m. Wilson gave brief remarks twice – at first saying, ‘I love everybody,’ then speaking up again after Warden Anita Trammel ordered the execution to begin.
‘I love the world,’ he said. ‘Love my daughters for me. I’m going to miss you always.’
Within 20 seconds of the execution starting, Wilson’s final words were, ‘I feel my whole body burning.’ He showed no physical signs of distress.
Wilson’s sister, Staci Wilson, sang a hymn throughout the execution, including the line, ‘His soul is resting and it’s a blessing.’ When he was pronounced dead, she recited Psalm 23.
