Show-Me State Times

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has officially requested that the Missouri Supreme Court set an execution date for Christopher Collings, the individual convicted of the heinous abduction, rape, and murder of nine-year-old Rowan Ford in 2007. Collings's actions were described as particularly gruesome, as he not only committed the heinous acts but also took measures to conceal the evidence, including disposing of the victim's body in a sinkhole and destroying incriminating items.

During Collings's trial, it was found that he had tortured the victim in a vile and inhumane manner, and murdered her to prevent her from testifying against him regarding the rape. Despite multiple reviews of his conviction and sentence by various courts, no legal errors have been identified.

Upon the filing of the motion to set an execution date, Collings's legal team will have the opportunity to respond before a final decision is made. If the Missouri Supreme Court proceeds to issue an execution warrant, the execution date will be scheduled within 90 to 120 days from the court's order.