Wade Wilson: The 'Deadpool Killer's' Path to Death Row

Key facts

• Wade Wilson was convicted of murdering Kristine Melton and Diane Ruiz in 2019.
• The Netflix series 'Worst Ex Ever' features his story in an episode titled 'Dating the Deadpool Killer'.
• Wilson was sentenced to death in 2024 for the two murders.
• He was dubbed the 'Deadpool Killer' due to sharing his name with the Marvel Comics character.
• Wilson has a history of arrests dating back to 2012 for offenses including burglary and grand theft.
• He was previously charged with sexual battery and kidnapping in 2015 but was acquitted.
• Wilson's biological father, Steven Testasecca, testified at his murder trial.

A Killer's Name Echoes a Comic Book Icon

The chilling case of Wade Wilson, a convicted murderer from Florida, has taken center stage with the release of the second season of the Netflix true crime docuseries, 'Worst Ex Ever'. The show's first episode, "Dating the Deadpool Killer," delves into the violent trajectory of a man whose name is famously associated with a Marvel Comics anti-hero. This season of 'Worst Ex Ever' explores harrowing tales of relationships that devolved into deceit, betrayal, and extreme violence, often told from the perspective of survivors. The series, which premiered on May 6, 2026, uses a combination of survivor testimonials, body camera footage, police interviews, and animated reenactments to bring these disturbing narratives to life. The inclusion of Wilson's story highlights how ordinary relationships can mask a terrifying darkness, a theme central to the show's premise. The director, Cynthia Childs, returns for the second season, alongside executive producer Jason Blum, known for his work in the horror genre.

The 'Deadpool Killer's' Violent Rampage

In 2019, Wade Wilson, then 31, committed two brutal and separate murders in Southwest Florida. The victims were Kristine Melton and Diane Ruiz. His conviction for these heinous acts led to him being sentenced to death in 2024. The moniker "Deadpool Killer" arose from the uncanny coincidence of his name with the Marvel Comics character. Before the murders, Wilson's life was marked by a pattern of alleged abuse. He faced accusations of battering and, in two instances, sexually assaulting women with whom he had been involved. While he was acquitted in one of these cases, authorities opted not to pursue charges in the other. The docuseries details his volatile relationship with Kelly Matthews in West Palm Beach, a period that preceded the fatal events of 2019.

A Pattern of Deception and Escalating Violence

Kelly Matthews met Steven in 2018, believing him to be the "perfect man." However, her experience quickly soured as her boyfriend pawned her laptop, seduced her close friend, and then violently attacked her as she attempted to take him to a rehabilitation facility. It was only after he left her for another woman that Matthews discovered his true name was Wade Wilson and that he possessed an extensive criminal record. Wilson's violent tendencies did not cease after his relationship with Matthews. He continued to assault other romantic partners. The situation escalated to murder after he met a woman at a local bar, prompting a manhunt by law enforcement. Following the murder of Kristine Melton, Wilson proceeded to the business of his then-girlfriend, Melissa "Mila" Montanez, where he assaulted her in the parking lot and attempted to force her into Melton's stolen car.

A Troubled Past and Legal Battles

Wade Steven Wilson was born on May 20, 1994, in Tallahassee, Florida, where he also grew up and attended Chiles High School. His biological parents were teenagers at the time of his birth and placed him for adoption. His biological father, Steven Testasecca, played a crucial role in Wilson's apprehension and later testified at his murder trial. Wilson's history with law enforcement dates back to 2012 with arrests in Leon County. Records indicate he served time in the Florida Department of Corrections for burglary and grand theft convictions. He also served a separate prison sentence for firearms theft. In 2015, Wilson faced charges of sexual battery and kidnapping in Tallahassee, but he was acquitted following a trial.

Netflix Docuseries Sheds Light on Infamous Cases

Season 2 of 'Worst Ex Ever' premiered on Netflix on May 6, 2026, featuring four new one-hour episodes. The series aims to expose "some of the most monstrous relationships and exes you’ll ever encounter," according to a Netflix description. The show's format, incorporating survivor accounts and investigative footage, seeks to provide a comprehensive look at the psychological and physical toll of abusive relationships. Beyond the "Deadpool Killer" episode, the season also includes stories such as a miraculous break in a 2011 cold case, a kidnapping and hostage situation, and the case of a reality television star. Director Cynthia Childs and executive producer Jason Blum's involvement suggests a continued focus on compelling and often disturbing true crime narratives.

The bottom line

• Wade Wilson, known as the 'Deadpool Killer,' was convicted in 2019 for the murders of Kristine Melton and Diane Ruiz in Florida.
• His case is featured in the Netflix docuseries 'Worst Ex Ever,' which premiered its second season on May 6, 2026.
• Wilson received a death sentence in 2024 for the double murder.
• He has a documented history of arrests and accusations of violence against women dating back to 2012.
• The docuseries utilizes survivor testimonies, bodycam footage, and animated reenactments to explore his violent past and relationships.
• Wilson's biological father, Steven Testasecca, testified against him during his murder trial.