Tulsa Local Pulse: Execution Looms, City Council Updates, and Community Events

Good morning, this is Tulsa Local Pulse for Thursday, June 12, 2025. We start with a story that’s dominated headlines across the state. Today, John Hanson, who was convicted in Tulsa for the 1999 kidnapping and murder of Mary Bowles, is scheduled for execution after last-minute legal maneuvering. Just yesterday, the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals lifted a temporary stay, clearing the way for the execution. Hanson's defense team still argues his clemency hearing was unfair because a board member with ties to the Tulsa District Attorney’s office participated. Legal appeals may continue up to the final hour, but barring another intervention, the execution is set for today in McAlester. On to city hall updates, the Tulsa City Council wrapped up a hearing last night on the annual assessment roll for the Kendall Whittier Improvement District. The council also advanced a rezoning measure for property near West 8th Street and South 45th West Avenue, expected to bring more single-family homes to the area. These steps could shape the way our neighborhoods grow and improve in the coming months. Turning to public safety, a Tulsa police officer is under review after a rolling patrol car hit both an officer and a jaywalking suspect on North Peoria Avenue earlier this week. The suspect, identified as Hampton, is recovering from minor injuries and scheduled for a court appearance today. Police emphasized that increased patrols in the area come in response to community concerns about rising violent crime. The department says it’s reviewing the incident and its policies around handcuffing injured suspects, aiming to balance safety with respect for medical guidance. Weather today is setting the tone for summer. We’re looking at clear skies through the afternoon, highs pushing up to the mid-90s, and just a light breeze—so keep hydrated if you’re heading out for errands or events. The weekend forecast is a similar story, with a chance for late-day thunderstorms Saturday, but nothing that should stop Friday night’s downtown activities. Tulsa’s real estate market remains lively, with more than 350 homes currently on the market and median home prices holding steady near 240 thousand dollars. For job seekers, local postings are up this week, especially in health care, education, and logistics. Several new positions just opened at Saint Francis Hospital and with Tulsa Public Schools as summer projects ramp up. Looking ahead to community events, tonight the Gathering Place will host an outdoor jazz concert starting at 7, and the Tulsa Farmers’ Market at Kendall Whittier Square kicks off bright and early Saturday. Tomorrow, the Arts and Humanities Council launches its annual summer kids’ art camp, which still has a handful of open spots for families interested. Sports-wise, our Tulsa Drillers are riding a three-game winning streak after a nail-biter victory at ONEOK Field last night. In high school news, Booker T. Washington’s girls’ soccer team was honored with This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.