Photo courtesy of Alabam Dept. of Corrections
Halloween night in 2005 turned tragic in Athens, Alabama. The eerie tale of Andrew Lackey, later dubbed “The Halloween Killer,” is a chilling reminder of how a seemingly ordinary night can end in horror.
The Crime Unfolds
On October 31, 2005, Andrew Lackey broke into the home of Charles Newman, an 80-year-old World War II veteran. Lackey was after a vault he believed contained valuable gold bars and cash. This information came from Newman’s grandson, making the crime even more tragic.
The Horrific Encounter
Newman managed to call 911 as Lackey forced his way into the home. Despite Newman’s pleas, Lackey demanded the location of the vault. Newman shot Lackey in an attempt to defend himself. However, Lackey retaliated brutally, stabbing Newman multiple times and fatally shooting him with his own gun.
The Aftermath and Arrest
Wounded from the encounter, Lackey sought help at a local convenience store. His gunshot wound led to his capture as he was treated at Huntsville Hospital and then arrested. Charged with capital murder during a robbery, Lackey’s trial brought to light his mental health issues, including signs of autism.
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Trial and Execution
Despite his mental health defense, Lackey was convicted in 2008 and sentenced to death. After waiving his appeals, he requested an execution date. On July 25, 2013, Lackey was executed by lethal injection, becoming Alabama’s first execution since 2011.
Reflection on Justice and Mental Health
Lackey’s case highlights the ongoing debate about the intersection of mental health and the criminal justice system. His execution raised questions about the fairness of the death penalty for individuals with mental disorders.
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.
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