Outlaws & Criminals · Late 20th Century

John Wayne Gacy’s Last Words

John Wayne Gacy photo
March 17, 1942 May 10, 1994 Age 52 American
Kiss my ass.
— John Wayne Gacy, May 10, 1994

Who Was John Wayne Gacy?

John Wayne Gacy murdered 33 young men in Illinois between 1972-1978. Known as the 'Killer Clown,' he performed at charity events while committing his crimes.

The Final Moments

Gacy was executed by lethal injection at Stateville Correctional Center.

Are These Words Verified?

~ Medium Confidence

Medium confidence. Multiple witnesses reported these words, though some accounts vary slightly. Prison officials and media witnesses generally confirm this statement.

Sources

  • archive Illinois Department of Corrections execution records
  • newspaper Chicago Tribune, May 11, 1994
  • firsthand Witness accounts from execution

Legacy

Gacy's case transformed how law enforcement investigates serial killers.

serial killerexecutionCook CountyKiller ClownIllinois

Frequently Asked Questions

What were John Wayne Gacy’s last words?

“Kiss my ass.”

How did John Wayne Gacy die?

John Wayne Gacy died on May 10, 1994 at the age of 52. Cause of death: Lethal injection.

Were John Wayne Gacy’s last words documented?

Medium confidence. Multiple witnesses reported these words, though some accounts vary slightly. Prison officials and media witnesses generally confirm this statement.