Travis Runnels, Texas

Travis was born in Texas, where he had a “chaotic and traumatic childhood.” Prior to his arrest, he worked as a laborer. Travis had previously been charged with two burglaries and aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon, for which he was given a 70-year prison sentence. While in prison, Travis also committed several acts of misconduct against the guards. During his time in prison, Travis worked as a janitor in the prison boot factory.  He had requested to be transferred to being a barber. Stanley Wiley was the supervisor of the boot factory.

On January 29, 2003, prior to starting work, Travis Runnels talked to three different inmates.  He was expressing his dissatisfaction and giving different threats as to what he was going to do to ensure his transfer. During his shift that day, Runnels approached Stanley, raised a knife and slit his throat, killing him. Another inmates asked Runnels why he attacked Stanley.  Runnels replied, “It could have been any offender or inmate, you know, as long as they was white.”

Runnels pled guilty to murder and was sentenced to death.

Please pray for healing for the family of Stanley Wiley. Please pray for strength for the family of Travis Runnels.