Edward Alger Jr. was tragically murdered on July 22, 1987, in Okaloosa County, Florida. His death was part of a series of brutal killings committed by Frank Athen Walls, a notorious serial killer who terrorized the region during the mid-1980s. Alger, along with Ann Peterson, was found dead in their mobile home in Ocean City, a small community within Okaloosa County. The investigation revealed that Walls had entered their home with the intent to commit burglary.
During the break-in, he knocked over a fan, waking both Alger and Peterson. When they came to investigate the noise, Walls forced Peterson to tie Alger's hands and gag him. Despite being restrained, Alger managed to free himself and attacked Walls, who then cut Alger's throat and shot him in the head multiple times.
Walls' crime spree did not end with Alger and Peterson. He was also responsible for the murders of Audrey Gygi, Tommie Lou Whiddon, and Cynthia Sue Condra, all of whom were killed between 1985 and 1987. Walls' arrest on July 24, 1987, marked the end of his reign of terror. He was charged with multiple counts of first-degree murder and burglary. The evidence against him was overwhelming, including confessions and physical evidence linking him to the crimes. Walls was convicted and sentenced to death in 1988, a sentence that has been upheld through numerous appeals over the years.
The legal proceedings surrounding Walls' case have been extensive. His defense team has repeatedly challenged his death sentence, citing intellectual disability and other factors. However, the Florida Supreme Court has consistently rejected these appeals, affirming his death sentence multiple times. Walls remains on death row at Union Correctional Institution in Raiford, Florida. His case continues to evoke strong emotions in the Okaloosa County community, where the memories of his brutal crimes still linger. The families of his victims, including Edward Alger Jr., continue to seek justice and closure for the horrific acts committed by Walls.
