Arizona Executes Leroy Dean McGill for Gasoline Murder
Killer’s last words and final meal revealed as he’s executed for gasoline murder
The Independent
Image: The Independent
Leroy Dean McGill, 63, was executed by lethal injection in Arizona for the 2002 murder of Charles Perez, whom he set on fire after an altercation. McGill's last meal included onion rings and chocolate cake, and his final words expressed gratitude to those present. This execution marks the first of three planned executions in the U.S. this week.
- 01McGill was pronounced dead at 10:26 a.m. PT on Wednesday at the Arizona State Prison Complex in Florence.
- 02The attack on Charles Perez and his girlfriend, Nova Banta, occurred on July 13, 2002, following accusations of theft.
- 03During the trial, Banta testified that McGill threatened them before igniting the fire.
- 04McGill's legal team argued for leniency due to childhood abuse and mental impairment, but the jury sentenced him to death.
- 05Twelve executions have taken place in the U.S. in 2023, with more scheduled in Tennessee and Florida.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Leroy Dean McGill, aged 63, was executed by lethal injection on Wednesday at the Arizona State Prison Complex in Florence, marking the first of three planned executions in the United States this week. McGill was sentenced to death for the 2002 murder of Charles Perez, whom he set on fire after an altercation over a stolen gun. McGill's last meal included onion rings, chocolate cake, and a green salad, and he expressed gratitude in his final words. The incident occurred when McGill threw gasoline at Perez and his girlfriend, Nova Banta, igniting them while they sat on a sofa. Banta survived but suffered severe burns, while Perez succumbed to his injuries. McGill was convicted in October 2004 after jurors deliberated for less than an hour. Despite his defense team's claims of childhood abuse and mental health issues, the jury imposed the death penalty. This execution follows a period of nearly eight years without capital punishment in Arizona due to issues with execution protocols. The state has resumed executions after addressing concerns regarding the administration of lethal injections.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The execution of McGill may bring closure to the families of the victims, particularly Charles Perez and Nova Banta, and reflects ongoing discussions about capital punishment in Arizona.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
What is your stance on capital punishment?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.


