Oklahoma man is put to death for killing of girlfriend’s husband, with a Texas execution to follow

The stark image of a father visiting a condemned man the night before his execution is a scene that lingers, a quiet testament to the enduring complexities of human relationships and the solemnity of the justice system. This week, Oklahoma carried out the execution of James Pavatt, convicted in the 2001 murder of Rob Andrew, while Texas prepares to execute John Allen Rubio for the horrific beheading of three young children. The events underscore a troubling reality: the death penalty remains a fixture in American jurisprudence, even as its application draws increasing scrutiny and debate.

What Happened

James Pavatt, 73, was put to death on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at the state penitentiary in McAlester. He was convicted of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder in connection with the shooting death of Rob Andrew, a 39-year-old advertising executive. The execution occurred at 10:12 a.m. CST, following a process where Pavatt did not appear to struggle, and was declared unconscious approximately six minutes prior. His case is inextricably linked to that of Brenda Andrew, Rob’s wife, who was also convicted in a separate trial and remains on death row in Oklahoma; she is the only woman currently facing capital punishment in the state. Weeks before the shooting, Rob Andrew had reported to police that someone was attempting to kill him by cutting the brake lines on his car. Following her husband’s death, Brenda Andrew claimed masked intruders shot her in the arm and fatally shot him. Pavatt and Brenda Andrew went to Mexico with her two children after the shooting and were arrested three months later while reentering the U.S.

At a clemency hearing last month, Pavatt claimed he was “not guilty of shooting anyone,” attributing his actions to manipulation by Brenda Andrew. He said he had fallen in love with Brenda Andrew and believed “everything she told me.” “It was not until my trial that I began to see the extent to which I had been manipulated by Brenda,” Pavatt told the board. “I can see why the jury believed that we were both involved in Rob’s murder.” Prosecutors maintained that both individuals were equally culpable, regardless of who fired the fatal shots, highlighting a deliberate plot to end Rob Andrew’s life. No family members of either Rob Andrew or James Pavatt were present at the execution, though Pavatt's daughter and her husband visited him the night prior, according to a prison spokesperson. ABC7 News has been covering this story extensively.

Simultaneously, Texas is scheduled to execute John Allen Rubio, 46, later this week for the 2003 beheading of three young children: Julissa Quesada, age 3; John E. Rubio, age 14 months; and Mary Jane Rubio, age 2 months. Rubio and his girlfriend, Angela Camacho, were accused in the horrific crime. Camacho pleaded guilty and is serving a life sentence. Rubio’s first conviction was overturned due to improperly admitted evidence, and he was subsequently convicted again despite pleading not guilty by reason of insanity for his second trial. Court records indicate that Rubio, while not the biological father of the two older children, treated them as if they were his own. He reportedly claimed the children were possessed and that he was a “chosen one” with a divine mission.

Community Reaction

The news of these executions has understandably evoked a range of emotions within the Atherton community and beyond. While the legal proceedings have unfolded far from our local borders, the gravity of the crimes and the finality of capital punishment resonate deeply. The loss of innocent life, particularly the senseless deaths of young children in Rubio’s case, is an enduring tragedy that underscores the fragility of human existence and the importance of safeguarding families. The circumstances surrounding Rob Andrew’s death – a betrayal within a church community and a subsequent flight to Mexico – highlight the devastating consequences of infidelity and deceit on families and faith.

California’s Move Towards Clemency

The timing of these executions is particularly notable given California Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent announcement to commute hundreds of death sentences before leaving office. The State of California's action represents the largest mass clemency in American history and signals a growing movement towards questioning the continued use of the death penalty. While this decision does not impact the executions occurring in Oklahoma and Texas, it underscores a broader national conversation about capital punishment and its role in the justice system. The move highlights a shift in perspective regarding the irreversible nature of execution and the potential for rehabilitation, even for those who have committed grievous offenses.

What's Next

John Allen Rubio’s execution is scheduled to proceed at the state prison in Huntsville, Texas. The case continues to draw attention due to Rubio’s claims of insanity and the disturbing details surrounding the deaths of the three young children. The community in Brownsville, Texas, where the children were killed, has worked to heal and memorialize them by transforming the site of the tragedy into a park and community garden, a poignant symbol of hope and renewal. The ongoing debate surrounding capital punishment is likely to intensify, particularly in light of California’s recent actions and the recent failed execution attempt of Christa Pike in Tennessee. The State of Tennessee's experience serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and potential pitfalls inherent in carrying out executions.

Katherine’s Take

The events of this week are a sober reminder of the darkness that can exist within the human heart, and the profound responsibility we have to protect the vulnerable. While justice demands accountability for horrific crimes, the execution of James Pavatt and the impending execution of John Allen Rubio raise fundamental questions about our society’s values and our commitment to rehabilitation. The fact that a man could be so deeply manipulated, as Pavatt claims, speaks to a breakdown in trust and a need for stronger community support systems. The case of Rubio is particularly heartbreaking; the loss of three young children is an unimaginable tragedy, and his mental state demands careful consideration. It’s crucial that we continue to support families and communities, fostering environments where children are safe, loved, and nurtured. The stability of a family unit remains the bedrock of a healthy society, and we must prioritize policies and programs that strengthen marriages and provide resources for parents facing challenges. The long-term societal costs of broken families are undeniable, and we have a moral imperative to invest in their preservation.

Resources

For those seeking further information or wishing to offer support, the following resources are available: The Samaritans Crisis Line provides confidential support for those experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts. The Children's Bureau, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, offers resources and information on child welfare and family support. Local community organizations in Atherton and surrounding areas also provide valuable assistance to families in need. The Peninsula Unified School District offers a variety of programs for families with children.

The execution of James Pavatt and the pending execution of John Allen Rubio serve as a somber reminder of the enduring challenges facing our nation. As we move forward, it is essential that we engage in thoughtful dialogue about justice, mercy, and the sanctity of human life.