James Broadnax was executed by lethal injection on April 30, 2026, in Huntsville, Texas, for the 2008 robbery and murders of Stephen Swan and Matthew Butler. This execution occurred despite a recent confession from his cousin, Demarius Cummings, who claimed he was the actual shooter.
Broadnax, who was 37 years old at the time of his execution, faced significant legal battles. He was convicted and sentenced to death in 2009. Cummings received a life sentence without parole for his involvement in the crime. On the day of Broadnax’s execution, prayer vigils were held across Texas as supporters sought clemency.
Key facts:
- Broadnax’s execution took place at approximately 7 p.m.
- The U.S. Supreme Court denied his final appeal to stop the 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.
In his last words, Broadnax maintained his innocence and expressed prayers for the victims’ families. He stated, “I’m innocent; the facts of my case should speak for themselves.” Cummings’s confession has raised concerns about potential wrongful conviction in this murder case.
Broadnax claimed that he was under the influence of drugs when he initially confessed to the shooting. His case highlights ongoing debates about the death penalty and issues within the criminal justice system.
