Many states have backup execution plans, but failures still happen
Summary
Tennessee’s attempt to execute Christa Pike by lethal injection failed twice, leaving her alive but in critical condition. Different states have varied backup plans for executions to handle problems, but failures still happen.Key Facts
- Christa Pike’s execution in Tennessee failed with both the primary and backup lethal injection methods.
- Tennessee uses two IV lines and allows a central line to deliver drugs if needed during executions.
- If the first dose of the lethal drug pentobarbital doesn’t work, Tennessee permits a second dose.
- Alabama uses a three-drug protocol with some backup for the first drug but less backup for the others.
- Idaho has detailed backup plans, including multiple doses and the option of firing squad as a primary method.
- Even with backup plans, some executions have been stopped or badly botched due to IV problems or ineffective drug doses.
- Execution procedures and details are often kept secret, including identities of execution team members and drug sources.
- Witnesses play a key role in informing the public when executions succeed or fail.
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