In Arkansas, USA, a family experienced a horrific tragedy during the typically festive month of December. A former military serviceman, Ronald Gene Simmons Sr., carried out a chilling killing spree in 1987 that left 16 people dead, including 14 of his family members. This dark event, considered one of the most heinous in US history, continues to haunt memories to this day.
Beginning his rampage on December 22, Ronald executed his wife, children, and grandchildren in a calculated series of murders. After killing his wife and oldest son, he proceeded to strangle his three-year-old granddaughter and then targeted four more of his children upon their return from school for the Christmas break. Subsequently, he murdered additional family members who visited for the holidays.
Following his gruesome acts, Ronald nonchalantly retrieved Christmas gifts for his victims and even went out for a drink. His spree extended to other locations where he killed more individuals associated with his past, ultimately leading to his surrender to authorities without resistance. Ronald was later executed by lethal injection in 1990 after being convicted of the brutal killings in separate trials.
The tragic events surrounding Ronald Gene Simmons Sr.’s actions during the Christmas season in 1987 culminated in his execution, marking a dark chapter in Arkansas history.