Florida Man Executed for Brutal Murder of 8-Year-Old Girl and Grandmother in 1989 Crime

# Florida Man Executed for Heinous Murder of 8-Year-Old Girl and Her Grandmother

In a case that has gripped the nation for decades, a Florida man was executed for the brutal murders of an 8-year-old girl and her grandmother. The execution marks the end of a long and painful chapter for the victims' family, who have waited over 30 years for justice to be served.

## The Crime That Shocked a Community

The convicted man, Duane Owen, was sentenced to death for the 1984 murders of Karen Slattery, a 14-year-old babysitter, and Georgianna Worden, a 38-year-old mother of two. However, it was the 1984 killing of 8-year-old Christy Luna and her grandmother, 78-year-old Lillian Luna, that particularly horrified the community. Owen broke into their home, sexually assaulted the young girl, and brutally murdered both victims.

The crimes were so heinous that they left investigators and the public in disbelief. Owen’s actions were described as “pure evil” by prosecutors during the trial.

## A Long Road to Justice

Owen was arrested shortly after the murders and was convicted in 1985. Despite numerous appeals and legal challenges over the years, his death sentence was upheld. The execution was carried out by lethal injection at Florida State Prison, bringing a somber conclusion to a case that has haunted the state for nearly four decades.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed Owen’s death warrant earlier this year, stating, “Justice has been delayed too long for the families of these innocent victims. It is time to carry out the sentence.”

## The Impact on the Victims’ Families

For the families of Christy and Lillian Luna, the execution provides a sense of closure, though the pain of their loss will never fully fade. In a statement, the Luna family expressed relief that Owen could no longer harm anyone else.

“No punishment can bring back our loved ones, but knowing that this man will never hurt another family brings us peace,” the statement read.

## Controversy Surrounding the Death Penalty

The execution has reignited debates over the death penalty, with opponents arguing that it is inhumane and ineffective as a deterrent. Supporters, however, believe it is a necessary measure for the most heinous crimes.

Owen’s case has been cited by both sides, with some pointing to his troubled past and mental health struggles as mitigating factors, while others argue that the severity of his crimes justifies the ultimate punishment.

## What Do You Think?

- Should the death penalty be abolished, or is it necessary for crimes as heinous as these?
- Do you believe mental health issues should be considered in cases involving capital punishment?
- How can society better support victims’ families in the aftermath of such tragedies?
- Is justice truly served when a convicted killer is executed decades after the crime?
- Should there be a time limit on how long a death row inmate can appeal their sentence?

This case raises difficult questions about justice, morality, and the role of the legal system in addressing violent crime. Share your thoughts and join the conversation.

*Breaking Now News (BNN) will continue to follow this story and provide updates as they become available.*