August 14, 1936 Owensboro, Kentucky Rainey Bethea becomes the last person publicly executed in the United States Bethea was convicted of the rape and murder of 70-year-old Lischia Edwards, who was choked during the violent sexual assault. He left behind damning evidence including a distinctive ring as well as fingerprints, linking him solidly to the… Continue reading The last public execution in the United States
Category: Executions
Over 800 men beheaded after refusing to deny their faith
August 14, 1480 Otranto, Italy Following a 15-day siege, 813 men are beheaded for refusing to convert from Christianity to Islam The siege began with Ottoman forces attacking Otranto, which was well equipped to guard against them, but only temporarily. Once the army was able to force their way into the city, the "archbishop was… Continue reading Over 800 men beheaded after refusing to deny their faith
“Brides in the Bath” killer executed
August 13, 1915 Maidstone, Kent, England Serial bigamist and murderer George Joseph Smith is hanged Smith had found a career in marrying women bigamously, clearing out their savings, then skipping town only to assume a new name and begin the process anew. Somewhere along the line, Smith realized he could make even more money from… Continue reading “Brides in the Bath” killer executed
Man executed for the abduction and murder of 9-year-old
August 11, 1999 Texas James Otto Earhart is executed for the abduction and murder of 9-year-old Kandy Janell Kirtland Earhart had reportedly visited the Kirtland home a week before Kandy’s disappearance, claiming to be interested in purchasing a paint sprayer the family was selling. Kandy’s stepmother later recalled Earhart looking Kandy “up and down” and… Continue reading Man executed for the abduction and murder of 9-year-old
Former police officer executed for the robbery, beating, and murder of woman
August 10, 1982 Richmond, Virginia Frank Coppola is executed in the electric chair for the robbery and murder of a woman Coppola was a police officer in 1978 when he and accomplices gained entry to Muriel Hatchell’s home under the false pretense of selling roses. They then restrained her with the cord of a Venetian… Continue reading Former police officer executed for the robbery, beating, and murder of woman
