New Tulsa Race Massacre victim identified in ongoing 1921 Graves Investigation

TULSA, Okla. (KFOR) — A major development Wednesday afternoon in the recovery of the Tulsa Race Massacre investigation, as a second victim has been identified.

Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols, along with archaeologists and forensic experts, announced at a press conference held on Wednesday, including the discovery of more potential victims.

Experts with the 1921 Graves Investigation have been carefully excavating the Oaklawn Cemetery in Tulsa, where it is believed to contain unmarked graves of victims who were killed in the Tulsa Race Massacre more than 100 years ago.

In July 2024, former Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum announced the first identification of a Tulsa Race Massacre victim since the physical investigation began five years ago, that victim being C.L. Daniel.

On Wednesday, another individual was identified as George Melvin Gillispie, who was found buried near Daniel.

The City of Tulsa states that genetic genealogy was used, and it is strongly believed that Burial 180 in Oaklawn Cemetery belongs to Gillispie. He was buried in a wooden casket and had no signs of trauma.

There is currently no known cause of death for Gillispie, and the investigation into how he died is ongoing.

Intermountain Forensics and the City are said to have notified Gillispie's living family members who reside in Oklahoma City.

Mayor Nichols also announced the recovery of six bodies, all of whom suffered gunshot wounds, and provided heartbreaking details on how the victims died.

Experts are now working to determine their identities through DNA research.

Another newly identified Tulsa Race Massacre victim was discovered through research as James Goings, who was reportedly killed during the riot. It is unclear at this time where Goings was buried.

For more information regarding the 1921 Graves Investigation, click here.