Execution of Brad Sigmon by Firing Squad in South Carolina

SOURCE www.npr.org
Brad Sigmon, who killed his ex-girlfriend's parents with a baseball bat, was executed by firing squad in South Carolina. He chose this method over the electric chair or lethal injection due to his fear of excruciating deaths. The firing squad is an execution method with a violent history in the U.S. and around the world.

Key Points

  • Brad Sigmon was executed by firing squad in South Carolina, the first U.S. prisoner to die by this method in 15 years.
  • Sigmon chose firing squad over the electric chair or lethal injection due to his fears of painful deaths.
  • The firing squad execution was carried out with three volunteer prison employees using rifles.

Pros

  • Brad Sigmon was pronounced dead quickly after the firing squad execution.

Cons

  • The firing squad method is considered violent and controversial.