A full ten years have now elapsed since the conviction of Don Collins for murder, following a distressing deathbed video in which his victim identified him and disclosed his appalling motive.
The gruesome incident involved his neighbor, Robbie Middleton, who was observing his eighth birthday. What should have been a joyous occasion turned into a nightmare as Collins, then 13, bound Robbie to a tree, doused him in petrol, and set him on fire.
Despite suffering burns over 99% of his body, Robbie bravely held on for over a decade before eventually succumbing to skin cancer caused by the severe burns.
In February 2015, Collins was sentenced to 40 years in prison. Outside the courtroom, Robbie’s mother, Colleen, expressed her long-standing unease towards her son’s killer, noting his cold and expressionless demeanor.
As we near the 11th anniversary of the final verdict, we reflect on this profoundly disturbing case.
Colleen and Bobby were parents to three children, with Robbie being the youngest. Known for his enthusiasm for birthdays, Robbie eagerly embraced June 28, 1998, receiving a new tent and planning to celebrate with family in Splendora, Texas.
However, on his way home, Robbie encountered Collins, who had allegedly assaulted him weeks earlier. Fearing exposure, Collins, armed with petrol, committed the heinous act.
Despite the severe burns that disfigured him, Robbie’s resilience and positive outlook inspired his family, even as he underwent numerous surgeries and skin grafts over the years.
Tragically, at the young age of 20, Robbie passed away in April 2011. Before his death, he bravely recorded a video exposing Collins and accusing him of prior assault.
Collins, who had a history of violence, including killing a kitten, faced felony murder charges after the emergence of the crucial deathbed video. Despite initially pleading not guilty, other witnesses came forward during the trial, alleging further assaults by Collins.
Following the sentencing of 40 years in prison, Colleen expressed relief and closure, believing that Robbie had finally found justice.
Before the trial, Colleen and Bobby were awarded $150 billion in a civil case against Collins, a symbolic gesture acknowledging the injustice done to their son.
Reflecting on the symbolic award, Colleen emphasized the importance of recognizing Robbie as an innocent victim, finding solace in the acknowledgment of his suffering.
