Troy Davis’s Last Words: ‘Continue To Fight This Fight’

Oct 11, 2011

Late last week, the Georgia Department of Corrections  released an audio recording of Troy Davis’s final words,uttered moments before he was executed on Sept. 21. Davis was accused of murdering an off-duty Savannah Georgia police officer but maintained his innocence. Jen Marlowe reported for Colorlines.com on the movement that Davis helped inspired. In his final moments, Davis urged his friends and family to "continue to fight this fight."

The recording ends with Davis addressing the prison staff carrying out the execution:

"For those about to take my life, my God have mercy on all of your souls. God bless you all," he said.

Here’s a transcript from the audio recording:

Well, first of all I’d like to address the MacPhail family. I’d like to let you all know that despite the situation — I know all of you still are convinced that I’m the person that killed your father, your son and your brother, but I am innocent. The incident that happened that night was not my fault. I did not have a gun that night. I did not shoot your family member.

But I am so sorry for your loss. I really am — sincerely.

All that I can ask is that each of you look deeper into this case, so that you really will finally see the truth.

I ask to my family and friends that you all continue to pray, that you all continue to forgive. Continue to fight this fight.

For those about to take my life, may God have mercy on all of your souls. God bless you all.