A corrections officer involved in the nation's first nitrogen gas execution revealed that the inmate had normal blood oxygen levels for an unexpectedly long period before they suddenly dropped. The execution of Kenneth Smith, the first person put to death using nitrogen gas, has sparked controversy and legal battles in Alabama.
During the execution, the nitrogen gas reportedly flowed for at least 10 minutes, leading to conflicting interpretations of the events. The state's Attorney General's office suggested that Smith may have held his breath, causing the process to take longer than anticipated. However, attorneys for another inmate disputed this claim, pointing to potential issues with the gas mask.
Media witnesses described Smith shaking on the gurney before experiencing gasping breaths, contrary to the state's assurances of a quick and painless death. The corrections captain testified that Smith's oxygen levels remained high before dropping once he released a deep breath.
Experts weighed in on the matter, with one stating that most people can only hold their breath for a minute or less, raising doubts about the state's explanation. The upcoming execution of Alan Miller by nitrogen gas has further intensified the debate, with legal challenges seeking to block the procedure.
Miller, convicted of multiple murders, expressed concerns about the state's ability to execute him properly, citing past issues during a failed lethal injection attempt. Despite these reservations, Alabama plans to proceed with Miller's execution using nitrogen gas later this month.
The controversy surrounding Smith's execution has prompted calls for more scrutiny of the new execution method. Attorneys and experts are urging caution and a thorough review of the process before further executions are carried out in the state.
