Share and Follow
BRADFORD COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA) — Nearly 18 years after the tragic loss of Denise Amber Lee, a wife and mother from North Port, justice has been served as the man convicted of her murder has been executed.
Michael Lee King faced execution at precisely 6:13 p.m. on March 17, 2026.
Outside the Florida State Prison on that Tuesday, both prison officials and Denise’s family gathered as they witnessed Michael King’s final moments.
“At last, this chapter has ended,” declared Nathan Lee, Denise’s husband. “I’m relieved that this day has come to a close. Now, we can concentrate on what’s been our focus for these past 18 years: advancing and improving the 911 system for the better.”
In 2008, Denise Amber Lee was tragically abducted from her North Port home, where she suffered a horrific fate of rape and murder.
Her case sparked nationwide reform of the 911 system, which was created by her husband, Nathan.
For the first time, News Channel 8 heard from Denise’s son, Noah.
“It’s been a long time coming and I’m just happy to have this closure,” said Noah Lee, Denise’s son.
“My dad said that he got the opportunity to know her and marry her, but unfortunately I didn’t get the opportunity to know her and be raised by her. I know he picked a great mom, but Michael King had other plans.”
Prison officials said King woke up early Tuesday morning and described him as being calm.
His last meal was pizza, tator tots, ice cream and a soda.
His last words were in part, “Since finding Jesus in prison, I have tried to live as his disciple.” King was given a three-drug lethal injection and at 6:13 p.m., he was pronounced dead.
“He chose to kidnap Denise and do what he did to her, so watching this little speech didn’t impress me at all because it was a written speech that he didn’t even write it,” said Rick Goff, Denise’s father.
“Michael King chose his path and that’s where he ended up today.”
Denise’s family said they are glad they can finally put this part of the chapter behind them now.
King was the state’s fourth execution of 2026.