The Execution of Ted Bundy

On January 24, 1989, the State of Florida executed serial killer Ted Bundy, nearly a decade after he first took his space on Death Row. Unlike executions before his, Bundy’s became a celebration for Floridians and people across the country who wanted nothing more than to see Bundy fry in the electric chair.

Ted Bundy killed at least 30 young women in the 1970s, although was convicted of just three murders. Police suspected he killed more than three people, but a lack of evidence prevented prosecution. Bundy confessed to the additional murders the day before his execution.

That somber day, Bundy sat down with TV journalist Ted Keppel for what would be his last interview. For more than an hour, Bundy confessed to murder after murder. He provided locations of the victim’s bodies and told Keppel violence in media and pornography led to his destructive life.

Police later searched the locations Bundy provided, but did not find any remains.

Bundy did not confess after a come-to-Jesus. Instead, he hoped to stall his execution and buy himself more time on this earth, a privilege vehemently denied to each of his victims The manipulative monster never felt remorse for the lives he took, only for his own life.

In a desperate attempt to save himself, Bundy promised to divulge additional murders and the locations of more victims’ bodies, pleading for his life and a delay in his execution. However, his manipulation fell flat this time, and the execution proceeded as scheduled.

As Bundy spoke to Keppel, crowds of people gathered outside Florida State Prison. More than 500 people happily gathered, as if some party was taking place.

Crowds Gather Outside Florida State Prison

The crowds cheered and chanted, “Die, Bundy, Die,” while sharing conversation and cold beer. Many held signs relaying various messages of hate, including one that read, “Watch Ted Fry, See Ted Die!”

The father of 12-year-old Kimberly Leach, one of Bundy’s youngest victims, brought a grill and food for a cookout. Specials on his menu included the Bundy burger and electrified hot dogs. Speaking to reporters, Leach’s father said he hoped to see Bundy “Well done” after his execution.

The Execution of Ted Bundy

Witnesses at the prison said Ted Bundy slept poorly after his conversation with Keppel. Knowing death awaits the next day tends to keep a man awake.

Bundy spoke to his mother twice during the day. Only then did he tell his mom it was true; he was the monster the media had portrayed him to be for all those years. Until then, Louise Bundy believed her sweet baby Theodore was innocent. She defended him and stood by his side through all the hate from outsiders. Tears washed down Louise’s face as Ted spoke.

Bundy took the death walk down the hall into the execution chamber. Asked if he had any last words, his voice quivered as he said, “I’d like to give my love to my family and friends.”

His face was as white as a ghost.

The thick strap was pulled across Bundy’s mouth and chin. The metal skullcap was bolted on top of his head, its veil blocking the front of his face. Supt. Barton gave the executioner the go-ahead.

The executioner pushed the button, sending 2,000 volts of electricity surging through Bundy’s body. His body tensed, his hands clenched, and a tiny puff of smoke rose from his right leg. One minute later, the executioner turned off the machine. Bundy’s body fell limp in the electric chair.

A paramedic rushed to the condemned, placing his stethoscope on Bundy’s chest. He did not hear a heartbeat. A doctor aimed a flashlight into his eyes looking for evidence of life.

Ted Bundy was pronounced dead at 7:16 a.m.

Crowds Outside Erupt in Cheer

Cheer erupted from the crowds outside.

Radio station DJs announced “Bundy’s Dead,” and dedicated Eddy Grant’s “Electric Avenue” in his honor.

Finally, Ted Bundy was dead. The families of the victims finally got justice. The world was a happier place for everyone without Bundy in it.

The crowds packed their belongings and slowly dispersed.

Ted Bundy was dead.

Ted Bundy Brain

Following Ted Bundy’s execution, his brain was extracted for scientific study. Researchers meticulously examined the organ, hoping to identify any abnormalities that might shed light on the reasons behind his choice to lead a life of murder and violence.

Researchers have found that brain injuries can lead to criminality. In Bundy’s case, no such evidence was discovered.