A Florida death row inmate, convicted of a triple murder more than four decades ago, has passed away in prison, as confirmed by authorities.
Paul Beasley Johnson, aged 74, breathed his last while receiving ongoing medical care at the Union County Correctional Institution in North Florida. The Polk County Sheriff's Office released this news but did not disclose the specifics of Johnson's medical condition.
In a statement, Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd reflected on the tragic events of 1981 when "three innocent people were violently and viciously murdered" during a meth-induced crime spree.
He particularly remembered Deputy Theron Burnham, a close friend, who lost his life during those events. Judd recalled Johnson's capture by SWAT during a manhunt and his role in escorting him to jail.
Johnson's conviction in 1981 encompassed three counts of first-degree murder and various other charges. In January of that year, he fatally shot cabdriver William Evans and then set fire to the victim's vehicle.
Subsequently, Johnson took a ride with a man and a woman, but he shot and killed the man, Ray Beasley, while the woman escaped to seek assistance. Tragically, Deputy Burnham responded to the scene and was shot during a confrontation with Johnson.
Judd expressed his satisfaction that Johnson had never experienced freedom after these heinous acts but also noted that the state should have executed him long ago. He concluded by acknowledging that Johnson would face another judgment, suggesting that it might not fare well for him based on his character.
In another news, a Maryland woman is facing serious charges, including attempted murder and arson, following an incident in which she intentionally set her home's front porch on fire while someone was inside on Sunday. See detailed story here
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