- Five execution methods remain legal in 28 US states
- Lethal injection faces 43% decline in usage since 2010
- South Carolina prepares first firing squad execution since 2010
- Alabama pioneered nitrogen hypoxia executions in 2024
- 93% of modern executions occurred through lethal injection
The United States continues grappling with the ethics and logistics of capital punishment as South Carolina revives firing squad executions this week. Brad Sigmon’s scheduled death marks the first use of this method since 2010, reflecting growing challenges with traditional execution protocols. With lethal injection complications increasing 72% over the past decade, states are revisiting historical methods once deemed obsolete.
Lethal injection remains the dominant execution technique despite mounting practical challenges. Over 1,400 lethal injection executions have occurred since 1976, with Texas accounting for nearly 600 cases alone. However, 31 states now report difficulties obtaining lethal drugs, while 18 documented botched injections occurred between 2015-2023. These issues have prompted 9 states to maintain functional electric chairs as backup options.
Electrocution persists as a secondary option with 163 executions since 1976. Tennessee conducted the most recent case in 2020 using 1,750-volt charges. Museum displays like Texas’ “Old Sparky” chair now serve as grim reminders of this method’s historical prevalence. Modern usage remains rare, with only 19 electrocutions occurring this century.
Gas chamber executions entered a new era when Alabama executed Kenneth Eugene Smith using nitrogen hypoxia in February 2024. This first-of-its-kind method sparked international debate, with human rights groups condemning its untested nature. Eight states currently authorize lethal gas, though only 11 prisoners faced this fate between 1979-1999.
Idaho’s proposed firing squad automation exemplifies regional innovation in execution technology. Following a failed lethal injection attempt in 2023, state legislators are considering electronically triggered rifle systems to streamline the process. This approach aims to reduce psychological trauma for execution teams while addressing drug supply issues.
Historical methods like hanging persist in New Hampshire’s legal code, though no executions using this technique have occurred since 1996. Public opinion shifts show 58% of Americans now support execution method reforms according to 2023 Pew Research data. As states experiment with new protocols, legal experts predict increased Supreme Court challenges regarding Eighth Amendment violations.