Oscar Smith, 75, was executed by lethal injection in Tennessee for the 1989 murders of his estranged wife and her teenage sons. Despite maintaining his innocence, he criticized the justice system during his final statement. His execution was notable for the presence of a spiritual adviser, who comforted him in his last moments. Smith expressed concern over the fate of others on death row, insisting he wouldn't be the last. The execution took place amidst ongoing controversies regarding new DNA evidence pointing to another suspect.
Smith's final statement criticized the justice system, expressing that it "doesn't work," while maintaining his innocence in the face of his execution.
He expressed concern for others awaiting execution, stating, "I'm not the first, and I'm not going to be the last" during his final moments.
Witnesses described Smith appearing calm during the execution, though his speech became labored and he stated, "I didn't kill her" before succumbing.
The execution of Oscar Smith marked Tennessee's allowance for spiritual advisers in the execution chamber, highlighting a shift in protocol.
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