Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Tennessee Man Set for Execution Despite Innocence Claims

5/21/2025

50 9

Summary

Story summary

Oscar Franklin Smith faces execution by lethal injection on May 22 in Nashville, Tennessee, for the tragic 1989 murders of his estranged wife and her two sons. Despite his long-standing claims of innocence and a clemency request, Governor Bill Lee has chosen not to intervene, leaving Smith's fate hanging in the balance.

1 of 1

Story summary

Oscar Franklin Smith faces execution by lethal injection on May 22 in Nashville, Tennessee, for the tragic 1989 murders of his estranged wife and her two sons. Despite his long-standing claims of innocence and a clemency request, Governor Bill Lee has chosen not to intervene, leaving Smith's fate hanging in the balance.