Bio

John Matthew Stephenson was born on July 31, 1963. He grew up in Warrick County, Indiana. Information about his childhood and educational experiences is scarce. However, like many individuals, he faced challenges as he grew up.

Over time, Stephenson faced legal troubles. He was convicted of burglary and theft before committing more serious crimes. These early incidents may have contributed to his later actions, but the connections are complicated and not fully clear.

In summary, John Matthew Stephenson's early life remains largely unknown. He was born in 1963 in Indiana and experienced a troubled path leading to his later criminal activities.

Murder Story

On March 28, 1996, John Matthew Stephenson committed a series of murders in Warrick County, Indiana. The victims were Brandy Southard, who was 21 years old, and married couple John Jay Tyler and Kathy Tyler, both 29. The violent incidents began when Jay and Kathy Tyler picked up Brandy after her work in Evansville.

Stephenson pursued their truck until they reached an intersection in rural Warrick County. There, he opened fire with an SKS Assault rifle, shooting at the pickup truck and the people inside. After shooting, he then stabbed each of the victims multiple times. This brutal attack resulted in the deaths of all three individuals.

Following the murders, Stephenson faced additional charges related to earlier crimes. He had also been convicted for burglary and theft from Brandy Southard’s home.

His trial became a significant event in Indiana, noted for its length and expense. Jury selection started on September 24, and the trial included many days of testimony and legal proceedings. It was one of the longest and most complex trials in Indiana's history. Ultimately, on May 8, 1997, the jury found him guilty of multiple charges, including three counts of murder, burglary, and theft.

On June 17, 1997, he received a death sentence for his crimes.