Execution Report: Andrew Cantu

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A jury found Cantu guilty of capital murder in May 1991 and sentenced him to death. The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals affirmed the conviction and sentence in May 1994. During both his state and federal appeals, Flores attempted several times to proceed without the assistance of an attorney. There were numerous hearings, stays of execution, appointments of counsel, removal of counsel, etc. related to his desire at times to not have legal representation,apparent changes of heart at other times, and difficulties working with with appointed counsel.

Gregory Lynn Summers was convicted of capital murder in August 1991 and sentenced to death. His execution was carried out in 2005. In his last statement, he denied any involvement in the murders. Ramon Gonzales was convicted of burglary and sentenced to 20 years in prison. He was released on parole in 1999. Paul Flores was sentenced to 30 years.

Five of Cantu's relatives attended his execution. Gene and Billy Mack Summers' sister, Bernice Lott, also witnessed it. The execution was delayed by about three hours as the U.S. Supreme Court considered a late appeal.

Cantu declined to make a last statement. The lethal injection was started, and he was pronounced dead at 9:39 p.m.

By David Carson. Posted on 18 July 2016.
Sources: Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Texas Attorney General's office, Associated Press, Official Detective magazine.