Despite being a brilliant episode, ‘Touched by an Ángel’ left fans heartbroken with this major death.
Major Spoilers Ahead for Dexter: Resurrection Episode 9
Nine episodes into Dexter: Resurrection, the highly anticipated sequel series has continued to surprise fans at every turn. What started as a revival many thought impossible has quickly become one of the most gripping chapters in the Dexter saga. But just like some of the strongest seasons of the original series, the brilliance of this season comes with a heartbreaking price: the death of a major character.
And this time, it was Angel Batista’s turn to say goodbye.
The Return Fans Dreamed Of
When it was announced that David Zayas would return as a series regular, longtime fans were ecstatic. For years, many felt robbed by the missed opportunity in Dexter: New Blood—when a Batista and Dexter reunion never happened. The announcement of Dexter: Resurrection reignited hopes, and this time, the writers wasted no time delivering.
From Episode 1, Angel and Dexter finally came face-to-face after more than a decade apart. But instead of a heartfelt reunion, their conversation was tense and suspicious. Batista had believed for weeks that Dexter Morgan was the true Bay Harbor Butcher—and he was right.
The Cat-and-Mouse Chase
Once convinced of Dexter’s guilt, Batista became relentless in his pursuit of justice. His obsession took him deep into New York City, where Dexter had escaped after the events of Iron Lake. Determined to prove his theory, Batista tried to convince NYPD detectives, but his claims were dismissed. The more he was ignored, the more his obsession grew—fueling a dangerous mix of rage and determination.
Blinded by his need to expose Dexter, Batista overlooked the real threat standing right beside him: Leon Prater and Charley. While Dexter (and the audience) knew Prater was a dangerously unstable person, Batista only saw him as an ally. In his desperation, Batista revealed Dexter’s true identity to Prater—sealing his fate.
Angel Batista’s Final Moments
What followed was as shocking as it was tragic. Off-screen, Batista was abducted and brought to Prater’s vault, tied to none other than Brian Moser’s infamous table. When Dexter arrived for what was supposed to be a planned meeting, he was met with a nightmare.
Prater demanded that Dexter kill Batista. Instead, Dexter freed his old friend, hoping for reconciliation. But the weeks of mistrust and rage were too much—Batista lashed out at Dexter, only to be interrupted by Prater, who fired five shots into Batista’s back.
As Angel Batista bled out, his heartbreaking final words marked the end of his journey. Dexter’s scream of anguish closed the episode, leaving fans stunned.
What Batista’s Death Means for Dexter
This moment will forever change how fans watch Dexter. Angel Batista, one of the few characters who represented loyalty, justice, and heart throughout the series, met a brutal end in his pursuit of truth. His death was a gut punch that reshaped the emotional core of the franchise.
Rewatching old episodes of Dexter will now carry a new weight, knowing the tragic fate Batista eventually meets, and the complicated emotions he carried for Dexter in his final moments.
Fan Reactions – Who’s to Blame?
Batista’s death has divided fans:
- Some believe Angel’s own stubbornness and obsession led to his downfall.
- Others blame Dexter for dragging him into danger.
- And many point the finger at Leon Prater, the one who ultimately pulled the trigger.
Now the big question remains—how do you feel about Angel Batista’s death?
Vote in our fan poll below and share your thoughts in the comments.