Oklahoma Inmate Found Unresponsive After Sentence Commuted

McAlester, Okla. — An inmate in Oklahoma, Tremane Wood, narrowly avoided execution after Governor Kevin Stitt commuted her death sentence on Thursday. Shortly afterward, Wood was discovered unresponsive in her cell during a routine check and was promptly taken for medical care, according to prison officials.

Kay Thompson, a spokesperson for the Department of Corrections, noted that Wood, aged 46, appeared unresponsive several hours after her meeting with legal counsel. After medical evaluation, it was concluded that her condition stemmed from dehydration and stress, though she was reported to be stable and alert later that evening.

In a recorded interview released by the Department of Corrections, Wood explained that she had been alone in her cell and suspected she lost consciousness after rolling off the bed. “I hadn’t fully regained my feeling,” Wood shared. “I woke up in the infirmary with a broken head and a broken lip. That’s exactly what happened,” she added, indicating she had not eaten since the previous day and denied any intent to harm herself.

Before being taken to the hospital, Wood made a poignant request, saying, “Please tell Governor Stitt, ‘Thank you.'” A response from her attorney was not available as of late Thursday.

Earlier on Thursday, Wood had been in a cell adjacent to Oklahoma’s death chamber when she learned about her sentence being commuted to life without parole. The victim’s family, who have ties to the Hutterite community in Montana, expressed their support for this decision, which Stitt acknowledged in a statement referencing their “Christian forgiveness and love.”

Wood was convicted in 2002 for the murder of Ronnie Whipp, a 19-year-old, during a robbery attempt. He maintained that his brother, who died in prison while serving a life sentence, was the actual murderer. This marks the second time a Republican governor has granted a pardon in a span of seven years.

Stitt stated, “This action mirrors the same punishment his brother received for killing an innocent young man and ensures harsh sentences that keep violent criminals off the streets forever.” According to the governor’s orders, Wood will not have the chance to apply for clemency, a pardon, or parole for the entirety of her life.

Stitt had implemented similar restrictions when he pardoned Julius Jones, who was on death row, in 2021. The governor also declined clemency for four other inmates. Since Stitt took office, 16 executions have taken place.

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond expressed disappointment regarding the governor’s decision to grant clemency, recognizing Wood as a “dangerous murderer,” yet affirmed respect for Stitt’s choice.

Wood’s attorney, Amanda Bass Castro Alves, expressed deep gratitude for the decision, emphasizing that it aligns with the wishes of Whipp’s family and the surviving victims, hoping it will bring them some peace. Notably, several Republicans had also urged the governor to consider a pardon for Wood.