Selection of Official Media Witnesses

Tuesday, July 15, 2025 | 10:19am

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – In accordance with state law, representatives from the following news media agencies have been selected to witness the execution of inmate Byron Lewis Black #126220. The witnesses were selected from seven applications received from recognized Tennessee news organizations to serve as statutorily required witnesses.

The witnesses are:

  1. Jonathan Mattise - Associated Press
  2. Kelly Puente - The Tennessean
  3. Steve Cavendish - Nashville Banner
  4. Hope Salman - Fox 17
  5. Nikki Hauser - WTVF
  6. Catherine Sweeney – WPLN
  7. Victoria Howland - WKRN

The selection was conducted in accordance with the Rules of the Tennessee Department of Correction Adult Services Division, Chapter 0420-3-4, under the authority of TCA 40-23-116. 

*Please send media inquiries to Dorinda Carter at Dorinda.L.Carter@tn.gov.