Eyewitness recalls haunting details of last firing squad execution

The firing squad has been used as a method of execution in the U.S. since 1608. Originally a punishment for mutiny and desertion, it later became a common form of execution in Utah and other states.

Modern return of a brutal method

South Carolina is set to conduct the first execution by firing squad in 15 years, bringing renewed debate about the controversial practice. The condemned, Brad Sigmon, chose this method over the electric chair and lethal injection.

Haunting eyewitness account

The last execution by firing squad took place in Utah, leaving a lasting impact on witnesses. One eyewitness described the violent twitching of the prisoner and the overwhelming stench of bleach used to clean the scene.

Execution gone wrong

Historical records detail botched firing squad executions, including one in 1877 where a man remained alive for 15 minutes after being shot. In another case from 1951, executioners allegedly missed on purpose to prolong suffering.

Lethal injection vs. firing squads

Once considered more humane, lethal injection has led to numerous botched executions, leading some experts to argue that firing squads may be a more effective and instantaneous method.

A method under scrutiny

As more states reconsider firing squads, experts and justices alike debate whether the method is a relic of the past or a necessary alternative to modern execution failures.