Florida Man Faces Execution for Double Murder in Home Invasion
Frank Athen Walls, aged 58, is scheduled for execution at 6 p.m. on Thursday at Florida State Prison in Starke. He has been convicted of the double murder of Edward Alger and Ann Peterson during a home invasion. This marks Florida’s 19th execution in 2025, contributing to a record number of executions in a single year.
Details of the Crime
In July 1987, Walls broke into the mobile home of Alger, an airman stationed at Eglin Air Force Base, and his girlfriend, Peterson. He restrained the couple, but Alger fought back. In the struggle, Walls fatally cut Alger’s throat and shot him when he continued to resist. Next, he shot Peterson as she attempted to defend herself.
Legal Proceedings
- Originally convicted in 1988 for two counts of murder, kidnapping, burglary, and theft.
- The Florida Supreme Court overturned the conviction, leading to a retrial in 1992, which resulted in another death sentence.
- Walls later confessed to three additional murders: Audrey Gygi in May 1987, Tommie Lou Whiddon in March 1985, and Cynthia Sue Condra in September 1986.
After being arrested, Walls’ unusual behavior prompted a tip-off from his roommate, leading police to discover evidence linking him to the crimes. Although DNA evidence connected him to Gygi’s murder, Walls pleaded no contest to avoid further trials.
Appeals and Current Status
Walls’ attorneys have requested appeals, arguing that his intellectual disabilities should exempt him from execution. However, the Florida Supreme Court denied these claims last week. Appeals are ongoing before the U.S. Supreme Court.
Context of Executions in Florida
This year, 46 men have faced execution across the United States, with Florida leading the nation. Following Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, and Texas each have five executions planned for 2026. Executions in Florida are carried out using a combination of a sedative, paralytic, and a drug that induces cardiac arrest.
The state continues to pursue its policy of capital punishment, with this execution further solidifying its record for total executions in a calendar year, surpassing previous highs.
