Bio

Robert Lee Woodard was born on June 17, 1980, in Illinois. He grew up in a working-class family and spent his early years in a typical American neighborhood. Woodard was described as a normal child, but details about his family life and early education are not widely documented.

As he grew older, Woodard faced challenges in school. He completed the eighth grade and struggled academically. At some point, Woodard dropped out of school, which affected his opportunities for stable employment. He worked various jobs, including as a laborer and a cook, but these positions did not lead to a steady or promising career.

By the age of 19, Woodard was living in Houston, Texas. His life in Texas marked a turning point, as he became involved in activities that led him down a troubled path. His early adulthood was marked by a lack of direction and a series of poor decisions. Despite having no prior criminal record, Woodard’s choices would eventually culminate in serious legal troubles.

Murder Story

On February 12, 2000, Robert Lee Woodard attempted to rob a convenience store in Houston, Texas. The store was owned by Thankachan Mathai and his wife, Achamma Mathai. During the robbery, when they could not open the cash register quickly enough for Woodard, he shot and killed both owners.

After the shootings, Woodard took lottery scratch-off tickets from the store and fled outside. He then stole a car from a customer at the gas pumps. The customer, Cory Calloway, had just finished filling his vehicle with gas when he heard the gunshots. As he looked up, he saw Woodard running toward his car. Calloway managed to retreat to safety as Woodard pointed a gun at him.

Several days later, police arrested Woodard. He was charged with the capital murders of Thankachan and Achamma Mathai. In June 2001, a jury convicted him and sentenced him to death. Woodard maintained his innocence during the trial, claiming that his brother was the real perpetrator and that he had been misidentified by witnesses. Despite his defense, he was unable to avoid the conviction and subsequent sentencing.