Texas Executes Matthew Lee Johnson for 2012 Murder of Grandmother

Matthew Lee Johnson, 50, received lethal injection on Tuesday, May 20, for the 2012 murder of 76-year-old Nancy Judith Harris during a robbery at a Garland convenience store. The execution, carried out at 6:53 p.m. CT, marked the fourth in Texas this year and the 18th nationwide.  

Final Moments and Last Words

In his final statement, Johnson addressed Harris' family, witnesses, and prison staff. He expressed remorse, asking forgiveness for the "wrong choices" that led to Harris' death. "I pray that she's the first person I see when I open my eyes, and I will spend eternity with her," he said. Johnson also thanked prison officials for treating him "like a man" and apologized to his wife and daughters, acknowledging his failures while emphasizing his efforts to rebuild his spiritual life during 12 years on death row.  

The Crime That Shocked a Community

On May 20, 2012, Johnson entered the Fina Whip-In store where Harris worked, doused her in lighter fluid, and ignited her after stealing cash, cigarettes, and her wedding ring. Surveillance footage showed Harris fleeing outside while engulfed in flames, collapsing as bystanders rushed to help. Suffering severe burns, she survived five days before her family opted to remove life support.

Johnson was arrested nearby after discarding his clothing. He reportedly taunted officers, asking, "What took you so long?" Forensic evidence and witness testimonies solidified his conviction in 2013.  

Remembering Nancy Harris

A devoted grandmother and Dallas Cowboys fan, Harris was remembered by her daughter-in-law Elizabeth as selfless and family-focused. She dedicated Fridays to "Nini Days," spoiling her three granddaughters with outings and playtime. Relatives described her as a fighter who prioritized health to witness milestone family moments.  

Johnson's Troubled Path

Court records detail Johnson's history of drug addiction, starting with marijuana at age 7 and escalating to crack cocaine and PCP. Despite periods of sobriety, financial stress led to relapse before the murder. His clemency petition highlighted efforts to mentor fellow inmates and rebuild bonds with his family during incarceration.  

National Execution Trends

Johnson's execution followed Indiana's execution of Benjamin Ritchie, convicted of killing a police officer in 2000. The next scheduled execution involves Tennessee's Oscar Smith, set for May 22 for the 1989 murders of his estranged wife and her two sons.  

As debates over capital punishment continue, Harris' case remains a stark reminder of the human toll of violent crime. Her family's enduring grief underscores the complex legacy of justice served through the death penalty.