Second victim identified from the Tulsa Race Massacre

Researchers have identified a second victim of the Tulsa Race Massacre, George Melvin Gillespie, who was buried in a wooden casket at Oaklawn Cemetery. Evidence suggests that more victims may be buried at the site, as 193 graves have already been excavated. James Goings has also been confirmed as a victim, although his remains are still missing. Mayor Monroe Nichols believes there are more victims to uncover, and the mass graves team plans to return to Oaklawn Cemetery later this year.

Wednesday, June 18th 2025, 9:18 pm

By: MaKayla Glenn

TULSA, Okla. -

Q: What recent discovery has been made regarding the Tulsa Race Massacre?

A: Researchers have identified a second victim of the Tulsa Race Massacre, and evidence suggests that more victims may be buried at Oaklawn Cemetery.

Q: Who is the second victim confirmed?

A: The second identified victim is George Melvin Gillespie, a late-to-middle-aged man buried in a wooden casket with no signs of trauma.

Q: What do genealogists need to confirm about Gillespie?

A: Genealogists aim to determine whether George Melvin Gillespie was killed during the massacre.

Q: Who is the other victim identified, and what is known about him?

A: James Goings is the first victim identified, although his remains have not yet been found. His confirmation comes from government documents.

Q: What did Mayor Monroe Nichols say about the information gathered?

A: Mayor Monroe Nichols mentioned that there is substantial information about the victims, with three letters being particularly convincing in identifying them.

Q: What insights did Dr. Kary Stackelbeck provide regarding the mass graves?

A: Dr. Stackelbeck explained that 28 individuals found in the mass graves stand out due to signs of trauma or being buried in wooden containers, highlighting potential massacre victims.

Q: How does the research team differentiate between massacre victims and non-victims?

A: The team uses historical context to identify burials that are likely victims of the massacre, guiding decisions on exhumation and forensic analysis.

Q: What is Brenda Nails Alford’s perspective as a member of the mass graves team?

A: Brenda Alford, a Greenwood native and descendant of massacre victims, expressed gratitude for the investigation, emphasizing the importance of uncovering history for families and the community.

Q: What does Mayor Monroe Nichols believe about the potential for more victims?

A: Mayor Nichols is optimistic that more victims will be found at Oaklawn, stating that current findings indicate they are on the right track to uncover the truth.

Q: What are the next steps for the mass graves team?

A: The mass graves team plans to return to Oaklawn Cemetery in late summer or early fall, contingent on budget availability.

Q: How can the public contribute to identifying more victims?

A: Forensic teams are encouraging public participation in DNA testing and workshops. One workshop is scheduled for this weekend. You can find more information here.