As execution looms, Rodney Reed’s mother hopeful governor saves her son’s life

AUSTIN, Texas - It's been an agonizing 22 years for Sandra Reed. Her son Rodney has been locked up for the 1996 murder of Stacey Stites, but with new witnesses and evidence that have appeared, many believe Reed is an innocent man and that Stites' former fiancé should be looked at.

"Hopefully the truth will set him free," said Reed.

Rodney Reed still sits on death row. His execution date is Nov. 20. However, at least two million people have signed a petition urging Governor Greg Abbott halt the execution. Numerous celebrities including Beyonce and Kim Kardashian are supporting Reed.

"We woke up finding out that Oprah Winfrey has joined us along with two million and we had millions supporting us before. So just knowing people are out supporting the truth, this is the truth, it's about justice," said Reed.

The Diocese of Austin even stepped in by writing to the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole.

"We of course as Catholics believe in life, the sanctity of human life from the beginning of conception to natural death. So it's natural and normal for us to be able to say we want life to be protected,” said Bishop Joe Vasquez.

"If he's a righteous man and fair man and looking at all this evidence out here, I just can't see him taking my son's life,” said Reed regarding the governor.

As Nov. 20 inches closer, the fear of the unknown lurks in the back of Sandra Reed's mind, but she and the Reed family said their faith is what has carried them all these years, and it's what will continue to carry them through this process.

"People say I’m strong but I give all the glory to God. I thank everybody from all over the world for their prayers and for standing up for righteousness and justice,” said Reed.

There will be a rally for Rodney Reed at the governor’s mansion on Nov. 9 at 2 p.m.