JEFFERSON CITY, Missouri – Missouri carried out its second execution this year on Tuesday, as Governor Mike Parson denied a request for clemency from inmate David Hosier. Hosier, 69, was pronounced dead at 6:11 p.m. local time at the Eastern Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center in Bonne Terre, Missouri.
Hosier had been on death row since 2013 for the murders of Angela Gilpin and Rodney Gilpin in 2009. Despite maintaining his innocence, multiple appeals, including a rejected petition to the Missouri Supreme Court, led to his execution. Governor Parson, overseeing his 10th execution, cited Hosier’s actions as driven by jealousy.
Angela Gilpin had ended a previous romantic relationship with Hosier before being killed during an armed burglary at her home. The Gilpins’ murders followed weeks of stalking and harassment by Hosier, with evidence showing Angela Gilpin’s fear of being shot by him. Parson underscored the severity of the crimes, expressing hope for closure for the victims’ families.
Hosier’s history of violence against women included a previous assault conviction and serious injuries inflicted on another woman. His defense team had argued against his death sentence due to the lack of physical evidence linking him to the murders. The recent clemency petition highlighted Hosier’s health issues, including brain damage from a stroke and heart problems.
Calls for clemency from U.S. Reps. Cori Bush and Emmanuel Cleaver emphasized Hosier’s medical condition and mental illness. However, Hosier expressed disappointment with his legal team’s handling of the petition, preferring a focus on forensic evidence rather than his troubled childhood. Despite the ongoing debate, Hosier’s execution proceeded as scheduled, marking Missouri’s latest capital punishment.