Rebecca Susan 'Becky' Robinson, a 42-year-old White/Caucasian female, tragically lost her life on February 22, 2003, in a brutal act of violence in Tulsa, Oklahoma. On that day, she and her ex-husband, Fred Barney, were murdered by a man named James Lynn Kidwell. The events unfolded after Kidwell, whom Rebecca had met online, accompanied the former couple to a bar and then returned to their home.
The situation escalated horrifically when Kidwell murdered both Rebecca and Fred.
In an attempt to conceal his crimes, he set their house on fire. The blaze was spotted by a passerby, Kenneth Maxwell, who promptly called 911. Tragically, Kidwell then approached Maxwell's vehicle and killed him as well, claiming a third victim in his violent spree.
The investigation into the triple homicide swiftly pointed towards Kidwell. A crucial piece of evidence was DNA from his saliva found on Rebecca's body. Further investigation revealed that a computer was missing from the Barney residence, which Kidwell had taken after the murders. This, along with other evidence and witness testimonies, solidified the case against him.
James Lynn Kidwell was subsequently arrested and charged with three counts of first-degree murder. Following his arrest, he was held at the Sequoyah County jail. The case drew significant attention due to its brutal nature and the connection to an internet relationship. Ultimately, Kidwell was convicted for the murders of Rebecca Robinson, Fred Barney, and Kenneth Maxwell and was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
