USA - Missouri. Less than two hours before the execution, U.S. District Judge Catherine Perry granted a stay to John Middleton

Less than two hours before the execution, U.S. District Judge Catherine Perry granted a stay to John Middleton, ruling that there was enough evidence of mental illness that a hearing should be held. Middleton, 54, White, was scheduled to die one minute after midnight Wednesday. Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster appealed to the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, but that court adjourned for the night without a ruling. The state could execute Middleton at any time Wednesday if the stay is lifted. Middleton was convicted of killing Randy Hamilton and Stacey Hodge on June 11, 1995. He then killed Alfred Pinegar on June 23, 1995, out of concern that they would tell police about Middleton's methamphetamine dealing. Middleton's girlfriend, Maggie Hodges, is serving life in prison after pleading guilty to 2nd-degree murder in all 3 cases.
Middleton was convicted in 1997.