Triple Murderer Executed in Tennessee: A Look Back at the Crimes

The state of Tennessee has executed a man convicted of murdering three individuals, including his wife and her two children from a previous marriage. Oscar Frank Smith, aged 75 at the time of his execution, was administered a lethal injection on May 22, 2025.

The tragic events unfolded in October 1989 when a desperate 13-year-old boy, Jason Burnett, called the police in Nashville, pleading for help. In the background, his older brother, Chad Burnett, could be heard saying, "Frank, no, God help me!" The call abruptly ended, leaving authorities with little information.

Over 15 hours later, a relative discovered the bodies of the three victims. Reports indicate that all three had suffered severe injuries, with deep gashes to their necks. Local media outlets revealed that three different weapons--a gun, a knife, and a sharp tool used for making holes--were utilized in the brutal slayings.

Smith quickly emerged as the primary suspect in the investigation. His wife had recently fled from their violent relationship, seeking safety away from him. The trial commenced in July 1990, during which multiple witnesses testified against Smith. They recounted instances where he had threatened his wife's life following her decision to leave him. Some witnesses even claimed that Smith had offered them money to carry out the murder.

Ultimately, the jury found Smith guilty and sentenced him to death. In the years that followed, various advocacy groups and individuals sought clemency for him, arguing that the trial was unfair and that the jury was biased. Amnesty International, for example, voiced concerns about the fairness of the legal proceedings just before the execution.

In 2022, supporters attempted to reopen the case, claiming that foreign DNA had been found on one of the murder weapons. However, the court rejected this motion, stating that the evidence against Smith was overwhelmingly strong.

On the day of his execution, Smith chose a last meal consisting of hot dogs, potato pancakes, and apple pie with vanilla ice cream. Despite his execution, Smith maintained his innocence, stating that he did not commit the murders. Witnesses reported his final remarks included a call for the governor to be informed that the justice system was flawed. Law enforcement officials, on the other hand, referred to Smith as embodying true evil.