Florida has executed notorious serial killer Ronald Palmer Heath by lethal injection, marking the end of a 30-year wait for justice. Heath, 64, was convicted of brutally murdering multiple victims, including traveling salesman Michael Sheridan, in a series of heinous crimes that shocked the state and left families devastated.
The execution took place at Florida State Prison on February 10, 2026, after a lengthy legal battle filled with appeals that ultimately failed. Heath’s final meal consisted of hamburgers and French fries, a stark contrast to the brutality he inflicted on his victims.
Heath’s reign of terror began on December 17, 1977, when he murdered 18-year-old Michael Green in Jacksonville. What started as a seemingly innocent encounter escalated into a horrific crime scene, with Heath stabbing Green multiple times before beating him to death with a tree branch. The sheer savagery of this act shocked the court and the community.
After serving only a decade for that crime, Heath was released on parole, a decision that would lead to further violence. In May 1989, just six months after his release, he and his brother Kenneth targeted Michael Sheridan at a bar. Their plan quickly turned deadly, culminating in Sheridan’s execution-style murder in a secluded area.
The brothers’ criminal activities did not stop there. Just two days later, they murdered another victim, Anthony Hammet, in a similar fashion. Despite the brutality of their actions, the lack of cooperation between the brothers allowed Ronald to evade justice for years.
Heath’s arrest came after a botched attempt to use Sheridan’s stolen credit card, leading investigators to connect the dots. His trial in 1990 hinged on the testimony of his brother, who struck a plea deal to avoid the death penalty. Heath was ultimately convicted of first-degree murder.
For more than three decades on death row, Heath’s legal team filed numerous appeals, all of which were denied. The Florida Supreme Court rejected his final appeal in January 2026, paving the way for his execution.
Witnesses to the execution included family members of Michael Sheridan, who had fought tirelessly for justice over the years. For them, the execution marked the end of a painful chapter, a long-awaited closure after decades of anguish and loss.
As the lethal injection procedure began, Heath reportedly expressed remorse, stating, “I’m sorry. That’s all I can say. Thank you.” The execution lasted approximately six minutes, during which he exhibited minimal signs of discomfort before being pronounced dead at 6:30 p.m.
This execution serves as a grim reminder of the impact of violent crime and the enduring quest for justice by victims’ families. The case of Ronald Palmer Heath will remain etched in the memories of those affected by his brutal actions, highlighting the complexities of the justice system and the long road to accountability.