Florida Man Faces Execution for Triple Murder and Arson, Marking Florida’s 12th Execution of the Year

In a notable development, David Pittman, a 63-year-old Florida resident, is slated for execution on September 17 following a death warrant signed by Governor Ron DeSantis. This marks the twelfth execution scheduled in Florida this year, surpassing the previous high of eight executions in 2014.

Pittman’s case comes amidst two other pending executions for Kayle Bates and Curtis Windom later this month. Nationally, the United States has executed a total of 28 individuals so far this year, surpassing the 25 executions carried out in 2020 and equaling the number from 2015.

Pittman was convicted and sentenced to death in 1991 on three counts of first-degree murder, according to court documents. The jury also found him guilty of arson and grand theft.

In May 1990, during a divorce proceedings with his wife Marie, Pittman allegedly visited the Polk County home of her parents, Clarence and Barbara Knowles. Tragically, he is accused of fatally stabbing the couple as well as their younger daughter, Bonnie. Following the killings, Pittman set fire to the house and stole Bonnie Knowles’ car, which he also subsequently set alight, according to investigators.

A witness identified Pittman fleeing from the burning vehicle, while a jailhouse informant testified that Pittman confessed to the murders. The Florida Supreme Court is currently scheduled to hear an appeal in this case, with a further appeal expected at the U.S. Supreme Court.