World

First nitrogen execution in the US: convict holds his breath as long as he can

In the US state of Alabama, convicted murderer Kenneth Smith was executed by inhalation of nitrogen. This is the first execution in the US using this method, reports with reference to Reuters.

This event is the first use of this method of execution, replacing lethal injection, which was introduced four decades ago.

This execution was the second attempt for convict Kenneth Smith, as he survived the first, which took place in November 2022, due to a failure to administer a lethal injection.

The state describes the method of execution used as “the least painful and most humane method of carrying out capital punishment known to mankind”. At the moment of execution, a mask is placed over the person’s face, into which nitrogen gas is fed so that they cannot breathe oxygen (nitrogen makes up 78% of air, but when inhaled with oxygen, it is harmless). As a result, the person dies from lack of oxygen.

It was expected that Smith would quickly lose consciousness and die, but witnesses said that the process took longer.

Smith was brought to the execution chamber on a gurney and a respirator mask was tied to his face, to which a canister of pure nitrogen was connected.

His wife and other relatives were present, and he gestured to them.

“I leave with love, peace and light,”

he said, according to eyewitnesses.

Journalists who attended the execution noted that Smith remained conscious for several minutes after the nitrogen was activated, actively moving his head and wriggling, but then took a deep breath and stopped breathing.

“Smith tried to hold his breath as long as possible,”

– said Corrections Commissioner John Hamm.

This method of execution has also been approved in Oklahoma and Mississippi, but has not yet been implemented.

Smith was convicted of the murder of 45-year-old Elizabeth Sennett on 18 March 1988. The murder was ordered for $2000 by the woman’s husband, a pastor who wanted to collect the insurance money after her death. Sennett’s husband committed suicide a week after her death. The second killer was executed in 2010.

Sennet’s family members attended the execution and said they had forgiven the killers.

“What happened today will not bring our mother back. It’s a day with mixed feelings, we’re not celebrating, but we’re glad it’s over,”

– commented Mike Sennett.

Difficulties with barbiturates

It is noted that in the US, it is becoming increasingly difficult to obtain barbiturates, which are commonly used in lethal injection protocols.

This is partly due to a European ban that prohibits pharmaceutical companies from selling drugs used in executions. As a result, some states have tried to revive old methods such as firing squads. Alabama, Mississippi and Oklahoma have introduced new gas-based protocols.