Wade Wilson Case Timeline: The Chilling Path From Arrest to Death Row
In October 2019, the quiet community of Cape Coral, Florida was shaken by the brutal murders of two women. What followed was a harrowing journey through the criminal justice system, culminating in a death sentence for the perpetrator, Wade Wilson.
This timeline traces the key events from Wilson's arrest to his final sentencing, offering a glimpse into one of Florida's most disturbing criminal cases in recent memory.
October 7, 2019: A Night of Horror
On this fateful night, 35-year-old Kristine Melton and 43-year-old Diane Ruiz fell victim to Wade Wilson's violent rampage[1]. Wilson, then 25, met Melton and her friend Stephanie Sailors at Buddha Live bar in Fort Myers. After spending time at a friend's house, Wilson strangled Melton in her sleep at her Cape Coral home. Hours later, he lured Ruiz into Melton's stolen car, strangled her, and horrifically ran over her body multiple times.
October 8, 2019: The Arrest
Just a day after committing the murders, Wade Wilson was apprehended by law enforcement. Initially arrested on charges of burglary, theft, and property damage, Wilson would soon face far more serious accusations.
October 10, 2019: A Grim Discovery
Three days after her disappearance, Diane Ruiz's body was found in a field behind a Sam's Club in Cape Coral. The discovery sent shockwaves through the community and solidified the gravity of Wilson's crimes.
November 19, 2019: Formal Charges
Wilson was indicted on two counts of first-degree murder. The charges set the stage for what would become a high-profile criminal case in Florida.
September 30, 2020: Jailbreak Attempt
While awaiting trial, Wilson and his cellmate Joseph Katz attempted to break out of Lee County Jail. This incident added to Wilson's growing list of criminal charges and highlighted his continued disregard for the law.
Jonathan Harker
April 20, 2023: Drug Charges Behind Bars
Further complicating his legal troubles, Wilson faced additional charges after methamphetamine and other contraband were found in his cell. This incident demonstrated Wilson's ongoing criminal behavior, even while incarcerated.
June 1-12, 2024: The Trial
Nearly five years after the murders, Wade Wilson's trial began. Over the course of 12 days, the prosecution presented a damning case against Wilson, including DNA evidence and testimony from Wilson's own father.
June 25, 2024: Jury Recommends Death
Following his conviction, the jury recommended the death penalty for Wilson. The decision came after careful consideration of the heinous nature of his crimes.
August 15, 2024: Motion for New Trial Denied
In a last-ditch effort, Wilson's defense team filed a motion for a new trial. Judge Nicholas Thompson swiftly denied this request.
August 27, 2024: The Final Sentence
In a crowded Lee County courtroom, Judge Nicholas Thompson sentenced Wade Wilson to death for each of the two murders. Thompson stated that the evidence showed both murders were "heinous, atrocious and cruel," with the second murder being "cold, calculated and premeditated".
As Wade Wilson now sits on death row, the families of Kristine Melton and Diane Ruiz continue to grapple with their loss. This case serves as a chilling reminder of the darkness that can lurk within seemingly ordinary individuals and the long, painful journey towards justice for victims of violent crime.
