Missouri to Execute Chris Collings on December 3

Missouri Governor Mike Parson has confirmed that the state will execute Christopher Collings on December 3 for the 2007 rape and murder of nine-year-old Rowan Ford. Collings, who was convicted of abducting, sexually assaulting, and killing the girl, has exhausted multiple appeals, with his conviction upheld by various courts, including the Missouri Supreme Court. Parson emphasized that Collings received all constitutional protections during his trial and appeals, and described the crime as horrendous. Collings had a history of emotional detachment and was a friend of Rowan's stepfather, which added complexity to the case. If executed, Collings will be the 23rd inmate executed in the U.S. this year. The case has drawn attention due to the tragic nature of the crime and the victim's innocent background.