Man executed for abduction-slaying of Texas woman

HUNTSVILLE, Texas — A convicted killer who volunteered for execution but in recent weeks changed his mind has been put to death in Texas.

Thirty-year-old Danielle Simpson received lethal injection Wednesday evening for the abduction-slaying of 84-year-old Geraldine Davidson. The former school teacher was abducted nearly 10 years ago during a burglary of her home in Palestine, about 100 miles southeast of Dallas.

While strapped to the death chamber gurney, Simpson said he loved his family and would miss them. Then, he said, “I’m ready, ready.”

A federal court earlier this year had said Simpson was competent to decide to drop his appeals. Then Simpson reversed himself and allowed lawyers to try to save him.

Simpson was the 22nd Texas prisoner executed this year.