Attorney General's News Release

August 30, 1999

Supreme Court sets Sept. 29 execution date for Jefferson County man who committed 1982 murder

Jefferson City, Mo. — The Missouri Supreme Court today set a Sept. 29 execution date for James Chambers, sentenced to die for killing another man outside a Jefferson County tavern in 1982. The office of Attorney General Jay Nixon had opposed Chambers' habeas petition, which was rejected earlier this year by the United States Supreme Court.

The events leading to the murder of Jerry Lee (Steve) Oestricker began May 29, 1982 when an argument ensued after Oestricker bumped into a friend of Chambers while he was headed for the restroom. The other man left but soon returned with Chambers, who was carrying a .38 caliber revolver. Chambers began to argue with Oestricker, and both men were told to go outside. After leaving, Chambers shot Oestricker once in the heart and then pistol-whipped him in the face before fleeing the scene.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

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