James Broadnax was executed by lethal injection on April 30, 2026, for the 2008 robbery and murders of Stephen Swan and Matthew Butler. His execution took place in Huntsville, Texas, at approximately 7 p.m.
Broadnax, aged 37 at the time of his execution, maintained his innocence until the end. His cousin, Demarius Cummings, confessed to being the actual shooter shortly before the execution. This confession has sparked outrage and raised concerns about potential wrongful conviction.
Key facts surrounding the case:
- Broadnax was convicted and sentenced to death in 2009.
- Cummings received a life sentence without parole for his involvement in the crime.
- The U.S. Supreme Court denied Broadnax’s final appeal to stop his execution.
- His legal team requested a 30-day reprieve based on new evidence, which was denied.
- More than 80,000 signatures were collected in support of clemency for Broadnax.
On the day of his execution, prayer vigils were held across Texas. In his last words, Broadnax expressed gratitude for those who supported him and prayed for the families of the victims. He stated, “I prayed to God for your forgiveness. Despite what you think about me, I hope to God that prayer was answered.”
Despite Cummings’ confession, officials have not indicated any plans to review Broadnax’s case further. The implications of this situation raise critical questions about the integrity of the criminal justice system and its handling of death penalty cases.
