The Texas death chamber witnessed dramatic final moments as convicted killer Ivan Cantu faced execution while passionately maintaining his innocence until the very end. The 50-year-old inmate used his last opportunity to speak before the lethal injection was administered, leaving prison officials and witnesses taken aback by his unwavering claims.
Cantu, sentenced to death for the 2000 murders of his cousin James Mosqueda and Mosqueda's girlfriend Amy Kitchen, spoke his final two words with conviction: "I'm innocent." The brief but powerful statement echoed through the execution chamber at the Huntsville Unit, creating a poignant moment that contrasted sharply with the clinical nature of state-sanctioned death.
Decades-Long Legal Battle Ends
For over two decades, Cantu had fought his conviction through numerous appeals and legal challenges. His case had attracted attention from anti-death penalty advocates and those questioning the evidence that sent him to death row. Despite multiple reviews by courts at various levels, his execution proceeded as scheduled by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
The double murder that led to Cantu's conviction occurred in what prosecutors described as a drug-related robbery attempt. Authorities alleged that Cantu killed his cousin execution-style before turning his weapon on Kitchen in their North Dallas home.
Final Hours and Last Meals
In his final hours, Cantu reportedly remained composed, speaking with spiritual advisors and preparing for his execution. He declined to make any lengthy final statement, choosing instead to deliver his two-word proclamation of innocence directly before the lethal drugs began flowing.
Texas prison officials confirmed the execution was carried out without technical complications. Cantu was pronounced dead at 6:47 PM local time, bringing closure to a case that has spanned nearly a quarter-century.
Mixed Reactions and Ongoing Debate
The case has reignited discussions about capital punishment in Texas, which continues to lead the United States in executions. Cantu's persistent claims of innocence until death have prompted renewed examination of evidence and witness testimony from the original trial.
Family members of the victims had expressed relief that justice was finally served, while death penalty opponents pointed to Cantu's last words as evidence of potential flaws in the criminal justice system.
As the debate over capital punishment continues nationwide, Cantu's final proclamation of "I'm innocent" serves as a haunting reminder of the irreversible nature of the death penalty and the complex questions surrounding its application.
