3 sources·Politics

First U.S. Execution by Firing Squad in 15 Years Set for Friday in South Carolina

Brad Sigmon, convicted of double murder, will be executed by firing squad, a method last used in the U.S. in 2010, raising ethical concerns.

This story was covered by 3 sources. This shows the distribution of these sources: left-leaning (blue), center (gray), and right-leaning (red).
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  1. Man will be first to face US firing squad in 15 years

    The lack of information about these executions has attracted criticism for its lack of transparency.

    Man will be first to face US firing squad in 15 years

    BBC NewsBBC News·3d
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  2. South Carolina death row inmate to be killed by firing squad

    The firing squad is thought to cause nearly instant unconsciousness and death from exsanguinating hemorrhage follows shortly thereafter.

    South Carolina death row inmate to be killed by firing squad

    CNNCNN·3d
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Leans Left
    This outlet slightly leans left.
  1. BBC News
  2. CNN
  3. New York Sun

Mar 7th, 2025, 6:49 AM ET

Summary

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Brad Sigmon, 67, is set to become the first person executed by firing squad in the U.S. since 2010 on Friday. Convicted of a double murder in 2001, he opted for this method after expressing fears about lethal injection and the electric chair. This execution highlights ongoing debates about capital punishment methods amid concerns over their humanity and effectiveness. Sigmon's attorneys have contended that the lack of transparent information about lethal injections has compounded their client’s predicament, leading him to favor the firing squad. South Carolina's controversial decision comes as the state continues to navigate execution complications.


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  • Brad Sigmon, convicted of double murder, has chosen to be executed by firing squad due to concerns over the effectiveness and potential pain associated with lethal injection and the electric chair.

  • His execution follows a lack of transparency in the lethal injection process in South Carolina, leading to criticism and legal challenges regarding the secrecy surrounding execution procedures.

  • Firing squad executions, while considered barbaric by some, may offer a swift and less painful alternative compared to other methods, raising ongoing debates about the morality and efficacy of capital punishment.


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