Overview
- Brian David Steckel remained conscious and spoke coherently for several minutes after the lethal injection began, according to witnesses.
- Witnesses reported audible clicks from the injection apparatus and observed convulsions, prompting questions about whether the drugs worked as intended.
- Delaware authorities stated the execution proceeded normally and said the longer timeline reflected allowance for Steckel’s final statements.
- In his last words, Steckel expressed remorse and acceptance, telling observers he accepted his punishment and was at peace.
- Steckel was executed for the 1994 rape and murder of Sandra Lee Long in Wilmington, a case that led to his conviction on multiple first-degree murder counts.