Tennessee Woman to Be Executed for 1995 Murder of Classmate

A Tennessee woman is scheduled to be executed next year for a murder she committed more than 30 years ago—when she was just 18.

Christa Pike lured her classmate, Colleen Slemmer, to a remote part of the University of Tennessee Agricultural campus in January 1995. What followed was a shocking and brutal attack that left the community horrified. Pike and her accomplices killed Slemmer, carving a pentagram into her chest and taking a part of her skull as a disturbing keepsake.

The Crime

Colleen Slemmer, a Knoxville Job Corps student, was convinced to meet Pike in a secluded area. Pike, along with her then-boyfriend and a friend, stabbed and beat Slemmer to death. The violent crime stunned Tennessee, not only because of the age of the offender but also the chilling details surrounding the murder.

Trial and Conviction

Pike was tried as an adult and convicted in 1996 for murder and conspiracy to commit murder. She received the death penalty, becoming the only woman on Tennessee’s death row.

Her accomplices received lighter sentences. Pike’s boyfriend was sentenced to life with the possibility of parole, while the other accomplice cooperated with authorities and received probation.

Since her conviction, Pike has said she suffered severe childhood abuse and struggled with mental health issues, including bipolar disorder and PTSD. Advocates argue she has shown remorse and made significant changes during her time in prison.

Execution Set for 2026

On September 30, 2025, the Tennessee Supreme Court set Pike’s execution date for September 30, 2026. The decision comes more than 30 years after the murder, drawing attention to questions about juvenile offenders tried as adults and the role of mental health in extreme crimes.

Why the Case Stands Out

Tennessee is one of 27 states that still allows the death penalty. Pike’s case is notable not only because of the age at which she committed the crime but also because of the nature of her actions. The execution has reignited discussions about capital punishment for women and the long-term consequences of violent crimes committed by young adults.