Oklahoma Man Sentenced to Life in Prison After Beating Nurse to Death With Wooden Plank at Car Wash

An Oklahoma man has been sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty to killing a 48-year-old man in a brutal attack at an Oklahoma City car wash. Billy Buford, 60, received the sentence this week, but all except the first 16 years were suspended, according to prosecutors.

The case dates back to May 2, 2025, when police responded to the An-Son Car Wash on NW 122nd Street in Oklahoma City after a body was discovered. The victim, Douglas Smitherman, had injuries consistent with homicide. Investigators later determined that Buford had repeatedly struck Smitherman in the head with a wooden 2-by-4 plank. The car wash has since closed.

Authorities said the two men had reportedly been involved in disputes in the days leading up to the killing, including an incident in which they threw bricks at each other. Officials have not publicly identified a definitive motive for the fatal attack. Buford was arrested later that month in connection with the case.

In May 2026, Buford pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter, a lesser charge than the original homicide allegation. His plea did not include a predetermined sentence, leaving the final punishment to be decided after a presentencing investigation. The court ultimately imposed a life sentence, suspending all but 16 years of imprisonment.

Smitherman’s family remembered him as an exceptionally intelligent and caring person. His mother described him as “borderline genius” and said he had worked as a registered nurse, including serving as a house supervisor at McAlester Regional Hospital for about three years. He also earned a nursing degree, worked as a personal trainer, and cared for patients at hospitals across Oklahoma.

Known to loved ones as “DougE Fresh,” Smitherman had recently returned to Oklahoma City hoping to make a fresh start. His family’s memories of his intelligence, professional accomplishments, and compassion stand in stark contrast to the violent circumstances of his death.

Source: Law&Crime