Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has signed a death warrant for David Pittman, 63, who was convicted of brutally murdering three members of his estranged wife’s family more than three decades ago. Pittman’s execution is scheduled for September 17, marking what will be the 12th execution in Florida this year—the most in a single year since the death penalty was reinstated in 1976.
Pittman was sentenced to death in 1991 after being found guilty of three counts of first-degree murder, along with charges of arson and grand theft. His crimes stem from a violent attack on May 1989 in Polk County, Florida, when he targeted his estranged wife’s family amid a bitter divorce.
The Murders
According to investigators, Pittman went to the home of his wife Marie’s parents, Clarence and Barbara Knowles, in May 1990. Once inside, he fatally stabbed both parents, as well as their younger daughter, Bonnie Knowles, who was Marie’s sister. After the killings, Pittman set fire to the family home in an attempt to cover up the crime.
Pittman then stole Bonnie’s car, drove it away from the scene, and set it ablaze as well. A witness later identified him as the man seen fleeing from the burning vehicle. A jailhouse informant also testified that Pittman confessed to the murders while in custody.
Long Legal Battle
Since his conviction, Pittman has spent over 30 years on Florida’s death row, pursuing numerous appeals in both state and federal courts. The Florida Supreme Court has already scheduled a hearing on his case, and an additional appeal is expected to be filed with the U.S. Supreme Court.
Despite these ongoing legal maneuvers, the state has moved forward with scheduling his execution, underscoring Florida’s recent acceleration in carrying out death sentences under Governor DeSantis.
Record-Setting Year for Florida Executions
If carried out, Pittman’s execution would further solidify Florida’s status as the nation’s leader in executions for 2025. So far, the state has executed nine inmates this year, surpassing Texas and South Carolina, which have each carried out four.
The 12 executions scheduled in Florida for 2025 will exceed the state’s previous modern record of eight executions in 2014. Nationwide, the U.S. has already reached 28 executions this year, tying the 2015 total and surpassing the 25 carried out last year.
The Broader Debate
Florida’s use of the death penalty continues to spark debate, particularly as executions rise under DeSantis’ administration. Supporters argue that the punishment provides justice for victims and deterrence against violent crimes, while critics point to concerns about wrongful convictions, lengthy appeals, and the morality of state-sanctioned death.
For the families of Clarence, Barbara, and Bonnie Knowles, the scheduled execution brings a measure of closure to a case that has stretched across more than three decades. Still, Pittman’s attorneys are expected to make final attempts to halt the execution in the weeks ahead.
If appeals fail, David Pittman will be executed by lethal injection on September 17, 2025, at Florida State Prison.
