A Killer in the Family

Donny is the oldest Tison son, a pre-law student who is in a loving relationship with his high school sweetheart, Carol. He embodies a moral center within the family, yet struggles with his loyalty to his brothers. When confronted with the plan to free their father, he agrees under pressure, believing they cannot succeed without him, and his inner conflict drives much of the drama.

Gary is the imprisoned father whose determination to stay free escalates into violence. He exploits his sons' loyalty, hijacks cars, and orders brutal acts to secure his escape. His ruthless pragmatism reveals a chilling dynamic of power and control within the family, culminating in deadly consequences.

Ray is the middle Tison brother, a hard-working farm laborer with a restless streak. He pushes for drastic action to free Gary and joins in the dangerous plan, driven by a mix of bravado and loyalty. His impulsiveness contrasts with Donny's moral tension and adds to the volatile mix.

Ricky is the youngest Tison brother, portrayed as someone who spends his days doing little, yet participates in the escape with a willingness born from family bonds. His presence underscores the perils of young, impressionable loyalty when faced with violent choices. He becomes part of the plan and its brutal outcome.

John is the gas station owner whose car is hijacked during Gary's escape. He is cautious and initially promises not to involve the police, trying to protect his wife and child. His family becomes collateral in the fallout of Gary's violence, highlighting the innocent victims of the fugitives' actions.

Dannelda is John Lyons's wife, who is terrified by Gary's coercive presence. She represents the vulnerable civilians caught in the crossfire of a failed escape, clinging to hope and trying to keep her family safe amidst chaos.

Teresa is the young niece of John Lyons and a baby in the dangerous car during the hijack. Her innocence stands in stark contrast to the violence around her, underscoring the human cost of the fugitives' choices.

Randy is Gary's cellmate who is released during the escape. The summary presents him as part of the prison break dynamic, contributing to the tense web of allegiances that unfolds after the fugitives leave the prison.

Carol is Donny's high school sweetheart, a steadying influence in his life who represents the personal life Donny hopes to protect. Her relationship with Donny provides a human dimension to the costs of the escape and the choices he faces.