Alabama planning to execute inmate with nitrogen gas

Alabama is set to use nitrogen gas in an execution, becoming the first state to attempt this method amid a shortage of lethal injection drugs. The inmate scheduled for execution, Kenneth Eugene Smith, survived a failed attempt via lethal injection in 2022. Smith was convicted for his 1988 murder-for-hire slaying of a preacher’s wife, Elizabeth Sennett.

While Alabama is intent on using nitrogen hypoxia, the details of the protocol remain undisclosed to the public. Critics argue that the decision to try an untested method raises questions and lacks transparency but Sennett’s family says they are putting their faith in officials to complete the execution. Concerns include potential pain and suffering for the inmate and the risk of unintended nitrogen leaks. The execution is scheduled for January 25, 2024.