A convicted double murderer, Brad Keith Sigmon, who brutally killed his ex-girlfriend’s parents, made a poignant statement before facing his execution on death row. Sigmon, aged 67, was put to death by a firing squad in South Carolina, USA, following the gruesome slayings. The tragic incident occurred when Sigmon broke into the home of David and Gladys Larke in Greenville County after their daughter, Rebecca Barbare, ended their relationship. The Larke couple, who had been together for approximately three years, resided in a trailer park near their daughter’s home.
After a night of heavy drinking and drug use, Sigmon confided in a friend that he planned to retaliate against Becky for leaving him by harming her parents. Armed with a baseball bat, he viciously assaulted both parents, delivering nine blows to each of their heads during the fatal events in 2001. Testimony in the 2002 trial revealed the extent of the injuries, with David Larke’s skull almost being split in half. Subsequently, Sigmon took David’s firearm and attempted to abduct Rebecca, who narrowly escaped his clutches as he fired shots in her direction.
Following the crimes, Sigmon went on the run, leading to an 11-day manhunt that concluded in Tennessee. He was convicted in 2002 and spent years on death row until his execution in early March 2025. Concerned about the gruesome nature of the electric chair, Sigmon chose death by firing squad, as disclosed by his attorney.
On the day of his execution, March 8, 2025, Sigmon was secured in a chair within the South Carolina Department of Corrections’ death chamber. His head was covered with a hood, a target was positioned on his chest, and a curtain shielded the three volunteer riflemen who were stationed close by. A basin was placed underneath the chair to collect any blood.
Moments before the fatal shots were fired at 6:05 pm, Sigmon’s final words, read by his lawyer, expressed a plea for love and a call to end the death penalty, particularly among Christians. The execution was witnessed by three members of the Larke family, Sigmon’s spiritual adviser, and observers noted Sigmon’s physical reactions after being shot. The execution utilized .308 Winchester Tap Urban bullets, a subject of ongoing debate among experts regarding the pain inflicted on victims.