Earl Lewis Steward was executed at the Nevada State Prison on February 24, 1960. He was executed for the crime of murder.

He was convicted in the killing of Thomas Jessen a North American Van Line driver.

Steward was a native of Maryland, and at the time of his death was 41 years old, his occupation was listed as machinist.

Steward met Jessen at truck stop in Salt Lake City, and had asked for work. Jessen took him on and the two of them drove to California and picked up furniture and various points.

Then they started their return trip to Salt Lake City. Jessen had collected about $1,400 in cash, and was carrying on his person.

Outside of Fernley in western Nevada on September 9. 1957, Steward, who was now driving attempted, to rob Jessen in his sleep, however Jessen awoke, and in the ensuing struggle Steward shot and killed Jessen.

Steward was later arrested in Philadelphia.

Nsla.nevadaculture.org