A South Carolina death row inmate, Brad Sigmon, was executed by firing squad on March 7, 2025. This marks the first execution by this method in South Carolina since it was legalized in 2021. Sigmon, convicted in 2001 for the murder of his ex-girlfriend’s parents, chose to be executed by firing squad over other methods.
- South Carolina executed inmate by firing squad.
- Brad Sigmon chose firing squad execution method.
- First firing squad execution in South Carolina.
- Clemency plea denied by Governor McMaster.
- Firing squad has 0% botched execution rate.
- Five states authorize firing squad executions.
Brad Sigmon’s choice of execution method reflects ongoing debates about capital punishment practices across the united states. He was pronounced dead shortly after the execution began at 6 p.m. ET. The controversial firing squad method has only been used three times since 1976, all occurring in Utah prior to this event.
Key details surrounding Sigmon’s case include:
- Convicted for killing his ex-girlfriend’s parents in their home.
- Attempted to kidnap his ex-girlfriend during the incident.
- South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster denied clemency requests from Sigmon.
The process of executing an inmate via firing squad involves binding them to a chair and allowing them to make final statements before being shot by a group of armed volunteers from corrections staff. In accordance with state law, this method is seen as a last resort when other forms of execution are unavailable or deemed unsuitable.
This recent event raises questions about how states choose methods for capital punishment and reflects broader societal views on executions considered humane versus those viewed as cruel or unusual. As public opinion continues to evolve regarding these practices, further discussions about their implications are likely to arise.
The execution of Brad Sigmon underscores significant issues surrounding capital punishment methods and their acceptance within society. As states like South Carolina explore different avenues for carrying out sentences, discussions about morality and legality will remain at the forefront of public discourse.
