A man sentenced to life for killing his grandfather in Macon County in 1997 has died in the Jefferson City Correctional Center.
Gerald Elam (photo courtesy; Missouri Department of Corrections)
A jury ruled Gerald Elam stabbed 87-year-old Minis Elam to death in the latter’s home, then set the home on fire leaving the grandfather’s body inside. Elam was convicted of first-degree murder, armed criminal action, and second-degree arson.
Elam said he suffered from mental problems and believed his grandfather was the Devil.
The Department of Corrections does not suspect foul play in the death of Elam, who was 65.
