An autopsy report revealed the harrowing details of the execution of death row inmate Wesley Ira Purkey, describing it as “excruciating” due to a mistake with his last meal.

Purkey, 68, was sentenced to death in 2004 for the kidnapping, r*pe, and murder of 16-year-old Jennifer Long in 1998. Jennifer disappeared from East High School in Kansas City, Missouri, prompting a search. Purkey abducted her outside a grocery store, took her to his home, assaulted and fatally stabbed her, and disposed of her remains. He also killed 80-year-old Mary Bales and attempted to burn her body.

Following Purkey’s execution by lethal injection, his autopsy revealed severe pulmonary edema, indicating fluid had entered his lungs and trachea while he was still alive. Medical experts described the sensation as akin to drowning and suffocation, among the most excruciating feelings known.

Despite suffering from dementia, Purkey’s final request for pecan pie as his last meal was unfulfilled. His last words expressed remorse for the pain he caused Jennifer’s family and his own daughter, acknowledging the futility of sanitised executions.

Jennifer’s father, William Long, expressed relief at Purkey’s execution, stating it was long overdue and brought closure for their family.