TX: Evidence Questioned in 2004 Execution
As the investigation into the case of Ruben Cantu continues, another execution of a possibly innocent man has come to light in Texas. Cameron Willingham was executed in 2004 for the death of his three daughters in a house fire that was deemed to be arson. Investigators determined that the fire was deliberately set due to broken glass and burn patterns at the scene. However, this evidence has since been discredited by five top arson experts as the broken glass cited was not caused by arson, but most likely the act of putting water on a fire. Additionally, experts have stated it is not possible to credibly determine whether the fire had multiple origins (implying that it was intentionally set) as the investigators testified. Mr. Willingham had maintained his innocence up until his execution.
In an unrelated case, Ernest Willis was sentenced to death for arson involving similar evidence. Texas Governor Rick Perry, who refused to hear a final appeal in Mr. Willingham’s case, pardoned Mr. Willis the same year that Mr. Willingham was executed. Mr. Willis was later awarded $400,000 from the state of Texas as compensation for his wrongful conviction and the 17 years he spent in jail as an innocent man.
