Randy Gay
American Serial Killer Case
CLASSIFICATION: Serial Homicide
LOCATION
Garland County, Arkansas, U.S.
TIME PERIOD
1978-2011
VICTIMS
3 confirmed
Randy William Gay, an American serial killer, committed three murders between 1978 and 2011, using a shotgun in each case. The first murder occurred on August 12, 1978, when Gay shot his father-in-law, James Kelly, during an argument in Arkansas. He was convicted of second-degree murder and served time in prison. The second murder involved Gay killing his biological father, Glen Harold Gay, under similar circumstances, resulting in another second-degree murder conviction. His final murder took place in 2011, for which he was sentenced to death after killing his father during a violent altercation. Gay is currently incarcerated at the Varner Unit in Arkansas, facing a death sentence for the third murder, while his earlier convictions have been served. Significant evidence includes eyewitness accounts and the weapon used in the crimes, which has been linked to all three murders.
Many believe that Randy Gay's violent behavior stemmed from a tumultuous childhood marked by abandonment, abuse, and trauma, which may have contributed to his eventual actions as a serial killer. Some speculate that his murders, particularly those of his father and father-in-law, were acts of retaliation against a lifetime of perceived abuse and oppression. Others suggest that his alcoholism played a significant role in his violent outbursts and decision-making during critical moments leading to the murders.
Randy Gay: A Troubled Path to a Death Sentence
Early Life and Family Struggles
Randy William Gay, born on September 1, 1958, in Garland County, Arkansas, came into the world under a cloud of misfortune. His mother, having failed to terminate her pregnancy, eventually abandoned Randy and his sisters. This left the children under the care of a father, Glen Harold Gay, who struggled with anger and was often abusive. Gloria Lindsey, Randy's older sister, recalled their father's strictness and volatile temper, noting instances of verbal and physical abuse directed at Randy. Moreover, Randy suffered sexual abuse by older boys when he was just six years old. Gloria escaped this turbulent environment by marrying at the tender age of 15.
Glen's remarriage only added to the family turmoil, as his relationship with his new wife was fraught with instability. Randy often found himself defending his stepmother against his father's aggression. Gloria understood the pressures that drove Randy to his father's murder, stating, "Of all the things I had experienced and seen. I of all people can understand how it happened."
Randy's life was further complicated by his battles with alcoholism. Gloria worried about his refusal to seek help, as he never attended rehab despite her urging. Randy's tumultuous relationships mirrored his chaotic upbringing. His first marriage to Sherry Buford ended after his initial brush with murder. His second marriage to Janice Cochran, a nurse, was marked by Glen's inappropriate advances toward Janice, fueling Randy's anger. Their volatile relationship stemmed from their shared struggles with alcohol. Randy's third marriage to Debra Anne Powell dissolved in a storm of violence and infidelity, with alcohol consumption taking precedence over household responsibilities.
The First Murder: A Family Dispute
The seeds of Randy's violent tendencies were sown early, and they bore fruit on August 12, 1978. In a fit of rage during a family dispute, Randy shot his father-in-law, 41-year-old James Kelly, with a shotgun. A witness recounted how Randy retrieved the weapon from his car and shot Kelly in the chest. Despite claiming self-defense, alleging that Kelly had threatened his life, Randy faced the weight of justice. Prosecutors, fearing an acquittal, struck a plea deal for second-degree murder. Randy received a 10-year sentence with five years suspended but was paroled after a mere nine months. He violated parole multiple times, including incidents of battery and driving while intoxicated, leading to his brief return to prison. In total, Randy spent less than two years incarcerated for Kelly's murder.
Sherry Buford, seeking answers, visited Randy to understand why he killed her father. His response was a haunting, "I don't know why."
The Second Murder: A Tragic Family Reunion
May 4, 1991, marked another dark chapter in Randy's life. During a camping trip near the Ouachita River with his second wife, Janice Cochran, his father Glen Gay joined them for fishing. Tempers flared, and a heated argument erupted between father and son. Randy returned to the campsite, loaded his shotgun, and locked Janice in a camping bus. She heard the fatal gunshot that ended Glen's life. Randy, in a state of hyperactivity, dragged Janice away from the scene and transported Glen's body by boat and truck before driving off alone.
Randy's refusal to divulge details of the murder to Janice added to the mystery. The couple hid Glen's disappearance for two weeks until police scrutiny forced them to confess. Initially, Janice falsely claimed she shot Glen in self-defense. However, guilt prompted her to reveal the truth, leading to both arrests. Tried together, Janice received a manslaughter conviction and served eight months, while Randy was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 20 years. He was paroled in 2000.
Later Conviction: A Troubled Encounter
In the years following his second release, Randy drifted through life, relying on odd jobs to sustain himself. Between 2006 and 2007, he encountered John Ward, a store owner who offered him work. Their relationship soured due to Randy's drinking problem, culminating in Randy threatening Ward with death over the phone. This act of terroristic threat in 2008 resulted in a 12-year suspended sentence for Randy.
The Third Murder: A Final Act of Violence
The cycle of violence reached its climax on May 10, 2011, when Randy encountered 49-year-old Connie Ann Snow at a logging site. An argument erupted in Randy's truck, leading him to demand Snow's exit. When she refused, Randy retrieved his shotgun and shot her in the face as she attempted to leave. He callously discarded her body in the Ouachita National Forest. Arrested the next day, Randy faced charges of capital murder.
Trial and Sentencing: The Final Verdict
Prosecutors sought the death penalty, and Randy's trial commenced in 2013. A mistrial due to juror misconduct delayed proceedings, but by March 2015, Randy stood trial again. The prosecution, led by Terri Harris, highlighted Randy's history of violence and reliance on the prison system as a "substitute parent." She argued that a life sentence equated to sending Randy "home." Harris reminded the jury of James Kelly's tragic death, emphasizing the senselessness of Randy's actions.
Randy's defense, spearheaded by public defender Mark Fraiser, focused on his troubled upbringing and argued that he functioned well in structured environments. Harris countered by pointing out that other children had endured worse and survived without resorting to violence. She concluded by stating that Randy's time for leniency had ended.
On March 19, 2015, the jury deliberated for three hours before recommending a death sentence. The judge formalized this decision the following day, marking a historic moment in Garland County, where no one had been sentenced to death since the 1950s. As Randy received his sentence, he exchanged curt farewells with the judge.
Prosecutor Harris expressed surprise at the verdict, acknowledging the rarity of such sentences but noting that Randy's prior murders weighed heavily on the jury's decision.
Sources
- Wikipedia: Randy Gay
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First Murder Committed
Randy Gay kills his father-in-law, James Kelly, during a family dispute.
Second Murder Occurs
Randy shoots his father, Glen Gay, during a camping trip after an argument.
Paroled from Second Murder
Randy Gay is paroled after serving time for the second-degree murder of his father.
Third Murder Committed
Randy Gay shoots Connie Ann Snow at a logging site after an argument.
Arrest for Third Murder
Randy Gay is arrested the day after the murder of Connie Ann Snow.
Mistrial Declared
A mistrial is declared in Randy Gay's case due to juror misconduct.
Guilty Verdict
Randy Gay is found guilty of capital murder in the retrial for Connie Ann Snow's murder.
Death Sentence Imposed
Randy Gay is formally sentenced to death for the murder of Connie Ann Snow.
Randy William Gay, an American serial killer, committed three murders between 1978 and 2011, using a shotgun in each case. The first murder occurred on August 12, 1978, when Gay shot his father-in-law, James Kelly, during an argument in Arkansas. He was convicted of second-degree murder and served time in prison. The second murder involved Gay killing his biological father, Glen Harold Gay, under similar circumstances, resulting in another second-degree murder conviction. His final murder took place in 2011, for which he was sentenced to death after killing his father during a violent altercation. Gay is currently incarcerated at the Varner Unit in Arkansas, facing a death sentence for the third murder, while his earlier convictions have been served. Significant evidence includes eyewitness accounts and the weapon used in the crimes, which has been linked to all three murders.
Many believe that Randy Gay's violent behavior stemmed from a tumultuous childhood marked by abandonment, abuse, and trauma, which may have contributed to his eventual actions as a serial killer. Some speculate that his murders, particularly those of his father and father-in-law, were acts of retaliation against a lifetime of perceived abuse and oppression. Others suggest that his alcoholism played a significant role in his violent outbursts and decision-making during critical moments leading to the murders.
Randy Gay: A Troubled Path to a Death Sentence
Early Life and Family Struggles
Randy William Gay, born on September 1, 1958, in Garland County, Arkansas, came into the world under a cloud of misfortune. His mother, having failed to terminate her pregnancy, eventually abandoned Randy and his sisters. This left the children under the care of a father, Glen Harold Gay, who struggled with anger and was often abusive. Gloria Lindsey, Randy's older sister, recalled their father's strictness and volatile temper, noting instances of verbal and physical abuse directed at Randy. Moreover, Randy suffered sexual abuse by older boys when he was just six years old. Gloria escaped this turbulent environment by marrying at the tender age of 15.
Glen's remarriage only added to the family turmoil, as his relationship with his new wife was fraught with instability. Randy often found himself defending his stepmother against his father's aggression. Gloria understood the pressures that drove Randy to his father's murder, stating, "Of all the things I had experienced and seen. I of all people can understand how it happened."
Randy's life was further complicated by his battles with alcoholism. Gloria worried about his refusal to seek help, as he never attended rehab despite her urging. Randy's tumultuous relationships mirrored his chaotic upbringing. His first marriage to Sherry Buford ended after his initial brush with murder. His second marriage to Janice Cochran, a nurse, was marked by Glen's inappropriate advances toward Janice, fueling Randy's anger. Their volatile relationship stemmed from their shared struggles with alcohol. Randy's third marriage to Debra Anne Powell dissolved in a storm of violence and infidelity, with alcohol consumption taking precedence over household responsibilities.
The First Murder: A Family Dispute
The seeds of Randy's violent tendencies were sown early, and they bore fruit on August 12, 1978. In a fit of rage during a family dispute, Randy shot his father-in-law, 41-year-old James Kelly, with a shotgun. A witness recounted how Randy retrieved the weapon from his car and shot Kelly in the chest. Despite claiming self-defense, alleging that Kelly had threatened his life, Randy faced the weight of justice. Prosecutors, fearing an acquittal, struck a plea deal for second-degree murder. Randy received a 10-year sentence with five years suspended but was paroled after a mere nine months. He violated parole multiple times, including incidents of battery and driving while intoxicated, leading to his brief return to prison. In total, Randy spent less than two years incarcerated for Kelly's murder.
Sherry Buford, seeking answers, visited Randy to understand why he killed her father. His response was a haunting, "I don't know why."
The Second Murder: A Tragic Family Reunion
May 4, 1991, marked another dark chapter in Randy's life. During a camping trip near the Ouachita River with his second wife, Janice Cochran, his father Glen Gay joined them for fishing. Tempers flared, and a heated argument erupted between father and son. Randy returned to the campsite, loaded his shotgun, and locked Janice in a camping bus. She heard the fatal gunshot that ended Glen's life. Randy, in a state of hyperactivity, dragged Janice away from the scene and transported Glen's body by boat and truck before driving off alone.
Randy's refusal to divulge details of the murder to Janice added to the mystery. The couple hid Glen's disappearance for two weeks until police scrutiny forced them to confess. Initially, Janice falsely claimed she shot Glen in self-defense. However, guilt prompted her to reveal the truth, leading to both arrests. Tried together, Janice received a manslaughter conviction and served eight months, while Randy was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 20 years. He was paroled in 2000.
Later Conviction: A Troubled Encounter
In the years following his second release, Randy drifted through life, relying on odd jobs to sustain himself. Between 2006 and 2007, he encountered John Ward, a store owner who offered him work. Their relationship soured due to Randy's drinking problem, culminating in Randy threatening Ward with death over the phone. This act of terroristic threat in 2008 resulted in a 12-year suspended sentence for Randy.
The Third Murder: A Final Act of Violence
The cycle of violence reached its climax on May 10, 2011, when Randy encountered 49-year-old Connie Ann Snow at a logging site. An argument erupted in Randy's truck, leading him to demand Snow's exit. When she refused, Randy retrieved his shotgun and shot her in the face as she attempted to leave. He callously discarded her body in the Ouachita National Forest. Arrested the next day, Randy faced charges of capital murder.
Trial and Sentencing: The Final Verdict
Prosecutors sought the death penalty, and Randy's trial commenced in 2013. A mistrial due to juror misconduct delayed proceedings, but by March 2015, Randy stood trial again. The prosecution, led by Terri Harris, highlighted Randy's history of violence and reliance on the prison system as a "substitute parent." She argued that a life sentence equated to sending Randy "home." Harris reminded the jury of James Kelly's tragic death, emphasizing the senselessness of Randy's actions.
Randy's defense, spearheaded by public defender Mark Fraiser, focused on his troubled upbringing and argued that he functioned well in structured environments. Harris countered by pointing out that other children had endured worse and survived without resorting to violence. She concluded by stating that Randy's time for leniency had ended.
On March 19, 2015, the jury deliberated for three hours before recommending a death sentence. The judge formalized this decision the following day, marking a historic moment in Garland County, where no one had been sentenced to death since the 1950s. As Randy received his sentence, he exchanged curt farewells with the judge.
Prosecutor Harris expressed surprise at the verdict, acknowledging the rarity of such sentences but noting that Randy's prior murders weighed heavily on the jury's decision.
Sources
- Wikipedia: Randy Gay
No Recent News
No recent news articles found for this case. Check back later for updates.
No Evidence Submitted
No evidence found for this case. Be the first to submit evidence in the comments below.
Join the discussion
Loading comments...
First Murder Committed
Randy Gay kills his father-in-law, James Kelly, during a family dispute.
Second Murder Occurs
Randy shoots his father, Glen Gay, during a camping trip after an argument.
Paroled from Second Murder
Randy Gay is paroled after serving time for the second-degree murder of his father.
Third Murder Committed
Randy Gay shoots Connie Ann Snow at a logging site after an argument.
Arrest for Third Murder
Randy Gay is arrested the day after the murder of Connie Ann Snow.
Mistrial Declared
A mistrial is declared in Randy Gay's case due to juror misconduct.
Guilty Verdict
Randy Gay is found guilty of capital murder in the retrial for Connie Ann Snow's murder.
Death Sentence Imposed
Randy Gay is formally sentenced to death for the murder of Connie Ann Snow.