The Crimes
Wesley Ira Purkey was convicted in 2004 for the brutal murder of 16-year-old Jennifer Long. He raped, stabbed, and dismembered her before burning her body and dumping the remains in a septic pond. He also killed 80-year-old Mary Bales with a claw hammer. Both murders led to his death sentence.
A Confused Final Meal
Purkey, diagnosed with dementia, requested pecan pie as his last meal—but asked to save it for later, seemingly unaware of the finality of his execution.
A Painful Execution
Executed in July 2020, Purkey reportedly endured a torturous death. Autopsy reports revealed severe pulmonary edema—his lungs filled with fluid while still alive. Dr. Gail Van Norman stated this causes a sensation “among the most excruciating feelings known to man,” akin to drowning.
Final Words and Reflection
Before his death, Purkey said, “I deeply regret the pain and suffering I caused… This sanitized murder really does not serve no purpose whatsoever.”
Conclusion
His death reignited debate over lethal injection, raising serious ethical concerns about execution methods.