Florida Inmate Who Killed His Cellmate to Get the Death Penalty Has Unexpected Final Words Before Execution

James Robertson, a 63-year-old Florida inmate who admitted to killing his cellmate because he wanted to be sentenced to death, was executed on October 13, 2026. But his final response before the execution was brief and unexpected.

Robertson was convicted of murdering his cellmate, Frank Hart, in 2008. According to reports, Robertson said he committed the killing because he preferred a death sentence over spending the rest of his life in prison.

Hart was reportedly just eight days away from being released when he was killed. His death devastated his family, and his daughter later spoke about the lasting pain of losing a loved one in such a violent way.

Robertson had been in prison since 1980 on burglary and assault charges. Following Hart’s murder, he received the death penalty and later gave up further appeals.

On Tuesday, as officials gave him the opportunity to make a final statement, Robertson reportedly replied, “Nah, I’m straight.”

He was pronounced dead at 12:32 p.m., according to reports citing Florida corrections officials.

The case has drawn attention not only because of Robertson’s stated motive, but also because of the devastating consequences for Hart and his family. For them, the execution could not undo the loss of a father whose release had been so close.

Source: PEOPLE | The Washington Post | WPBF