South Carolina is set to execute inmate Brad Sigmon by firing squad on Friday evening, marking a rare occurrence as this method has not been used in the U.S. since 2010. Sigmon, 67, was convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriend’s parents in 2001 and chose the firing squad over lethal injection due to concerns about the state’s execution protocols.
- South Carolina to execute inmate with firing squad
- Brad Sigmon convicted of 2001 double murder
- Sigmon chose firing squad over lethal injection
- First execution by firing squad in state history
- Firing squads gaining popularity amid drug shortages
- Utah's recent use of firing squads noted
Brad Sigmon’s upcoming execution represents a significant moment in South Carolina’s use of capital punishment. He was sentenced to death for killing David and Gladys Larke with a baseball bat nearly two decades ago. A judge allowed him to choose between three methods of execution: lethal injection, electrocution, or firing squad. His decision to opt for the firing squad reflects growing concerns about the reliability and humanity of lethal injections.
The firing squad has become an increasingly discussed option among states facing difficulties obtaining lethal injection drugs. In recent years, several states have legalized this method due to complications associated with other forms of execution that have led to botched procedures. Notably, Utah remains the only state that has carried out executions by firing squad in modern times.
- Sigmon will be executed at Broad River Correctional Institution in Columbia, S.C., shortly after 6 p.m.
- This marks the first time South Carolina will use a firing squad for an execution.
- A majority of Americans support the death penalty but view firing squads as outdated.
If carried out as planned, Sigmon’s execution will highlight ongoing debates surrounding capital punishment and its methods across various states. The choice of a firing squad may reignite discussions on how society views justice and humane treatment within the context of executions.
The scheduled execution of Brad Sigmon by firing squad underscores significant issues related to capital punishment practices today. As he prepares for his final moments on Friday evening, questions about ethical implications and public sentiment toward various methods continue to evolve across jurisdictions.
