In a final act before facing justice, convicted serial killer Derrick Todd Lee made headlines once again — not for what he did, but for what he said just hours before his execution.
Lee, responsible for the brutal murders of at least seven women in Louisiana during the early 2000s, had spent nearly two decades on death row. Known as the “Baton Rouge Serial Killer,” his crimes left families shattered and communities terrified.
But before he was put to death by lethal injection, Lee requested a final statement — one that would go on to divide public opinion and reignite conversations about crime, punishment, and redemption.
“I want to apologize,” he said calmly, reading from a prepared note. “To the families of my victims — I am truly sorry for the pain I caused.”
He continued:
“I know nothing I can say will bring your loved ones back. I don’t expect forgiveness. But I hope, in time, you can find peace.”
The words stunned many who watched the broadcast of his final moments. Some expected defiance. Others anticipated silence. Instead, he chose to acknowledge the suffering he caused — something he never fully did during years of appeals and legal battles.
What came next surprised people even more.
Lee turned his attention to his own family.
“I want to thank my mother, my siblings, and those who stood by me through this,” he said. “I know I disappointed you. But I hope you remember me for more than just the worst thing I ever did.”
That part sparked immediate debate online.
Victims’ families were divided in their reactions. Some called it a long-overdue moment of accountability. Others dismissed it as too little, too late.
One victim’s sister responded publicly:
“He took everything from us. He gets to say he’s sorry? That doesn’t undo any of it.”
Another family member wrote:
“If he meant it, maybe it’s the only good thing he ever did.”
Lee also addressed younger generations — warning them against following the same dark path.
“To any kid out there thinking they’re beyond help, they’re not,” he said. “Don’t make the same mistakes I did. You still have time to change.”
His final words echoed across news outlets and social media, sparking intense discussion about whether remorse has any value when it comes at the very end.
Some argued that true repentance should come long before execution — not in the final minutes. Others believed that even criminals deserve the chance to express regret — and that healing sometimes starts with hearing an apology, no matter how late.
Regardless of where people stand, one thing is clear:
Even in the darkest chapters of humanity, the power of words can leave a lasting impact.