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BONNE TERRE, MO (KTVI) – Convicted killer David Zink was put to death by the state of Missouri Tuesday night.

“He was an evil man,” said Sheriff Jim Arnott, Greene County Sheriff’s Department.

Zink was convicted of the 2001 abduction, rape and murder of 19-year-old Amanda Morton.  He was on parole for rape when was involved in a fender bender with the victim.  Zink told investigators he killed Morton because he was drinking and driving, and feared going back to prison.

Investigators believe Zink was acting out his past crimes when he raped Morton.

“He was just a horrible monster,” said Arnott.

Arnott and Major Phil Corcoran, Greene County Sheriff’s Department, traveled from Springfield to Bonne Terre so they could witness the execution.  Both were involved in the investigation into Morton’s murder.

“A lot of cases you do not get such a final chapter as this,” said Arnott.  Tonight we witness that, and witnesses justice being done.”

Morton’s parents, sister and other relatives were also in Bonne Terre to witness Zink’s death.  They declined to release a statement following the execution.

“They’re a great family and a very tough situation that they went through,” said Arnott.   “It’s unspeakable.  It’s unimaginable as parents.”

Zink left behind a statement that was released following his execution.

David Zink Statement:

I can’t imagine the pain and anguish one experiences when they learn that someone has killed a loved one, and I offer my sincerest apology to Amanda Morton’s family and friends for my actions.  I hope my execution brings them the peace and satisfaction they seek.

I also have to apologize to the second set of victims, my family and friends, that had the unfortunate circumstance of developing emotions which will now cause them pain and suffering upon my execution.

I kept my promise to fight this case for their benefit, and although unsuccessful to prevent the execution, we have been successful in exposing some serious flaws that offend the basic concept of the American Justice System.

For those who remain on death row, understand that everyone is going to die.  Statistically speaking, we have a much easier death than most, so I encourage you to embrace it and celebrate our true liberation before society figures it out and condemns us to life without parole and we too will die a lingering death.​