On September 24, 2024, Governor Mike Parson announced that the State of Missouri will proceed with the execution of Marcellus Williams, following a directive from the Supreme Court of Missouri.
Williams was convicted for the murder of Felicia Gayle, which occurred on August 11, 1998. During the crime, he broke into Ms. Gayle’s home, attacked her as she exited the shower, and stabbed her 43 times before leaving the murder weapon in her neck. He stole various items from her residence and was later apprehended in connection with a series of robberies in the St. Louis area.
In his statement, Governor Parson emphasized the challenges that capital punishment cases present, asserting his commitment to uphold the law and trust in the judicial system’s integrity. He noted that Williams has pursued over 15 hearings to assert his innocence and overturn his conviction, but none have found any merit in his claims. Parson stated, “The facts of this case have led me to believe in Mr. Williams’ guilt, and his punishment will be carried out as mandated by the Supreme Court.”
The governor also expressed concerns regarding the media coverage of the case, stating that Williams’ attorneys have attempted to complicate the narrative around DNA evidence, which the courts have consistently rejected. He urged media outlets to conduct thorough investigations rather than rely on claims from individuals with a vested interest in the case.
Despite Williams’ continued claims of innocence, various judicial bodies, including a jury, the Missouri Supreme Court, and a Board of Inquiry, have repeatedly affirmed his guilt. Key evidence against him includes:
– Prior DNA testing did not focus on “touch DNA” per the investigative standards at the time, and subsequent tests have not exonerated him.
– Williams has a significant criminal background with numerous felonies, which align with the nature of Ms. Gayle’s murder.
– He reportedly confessed the crime to his girlfriend shortly after the murder and threatened her if she reported it to law enforcement.
– The girlfriend never sought the reward for information about the murder, contradicting claims of being motivated by money.
– During interactions with police, a jailhouse informant provided previously unknown details about the crime, corroborating Williams’ involvement.
– Witnesses have testified that Williams bragged about the murder.
– Ms. Gayle’s belongings were discovered in Williams’ vehicle.
– He sold a laptop belonging to Ms. Gayle’s husband, later identified by the buyer as being sourced from Williams.
– Williams’ behavioral record in prison includes violent conduct towards other inmates and threats against prison staff.