A Mexican national has been executed in Texas despite widespread objections, reaching as far as the White House. Humberto Leal García was killed by lethal injection Thursday shortly after the Supreme Court declined to hear his case in a 5-to-4 vote and Texas Gov. Rick Perry refused to issue a stay. The Obama administration had called for a delay following disclosures Leal was never informed he could have access to Mexican consular officials, as is required under international conventions. Leal was convicted for the 1994 kidnapping, rape and murder of Adria Sauceda, a 16-year-old girl. A Texas prison spokesperson said Leal’s last words included an apology to the victim’s family.

Michelle Lyons: “He gave a lengthy last statement. He said, 'I am sorry for everything that I have done. I've hurt a lot of people. For years, I have never thought that I deserved any type of forgiveness. Lord Jesus Christ in my life, I know He has forgiven me. I have accepted His forgiveness. I have accepted everything. Let this be final and be done. I take the full blame for this.”

In seeking a delay, the White House said flouting international treaties at home could endanger U.S. citizens arrested abroad by establishing a precedent for denial of diplomatic access.