Execution called off after failure to find vein
‘ This is a day I’ll never forget,’ inmate says
LUCASVILLE, OHIO • Ohio called off the execution of a condemned killer with multiple health problems on Wednesday, because members of the state’s execution team were unable to find a vein to insert an IV that would administer the lethal drugs.
It was only the third time in U. S. history that an execution has been called off after the process had begun.
The execution team first worked on both of Alva Campbell’s arms for about 30 minutes Wednesday while he was on a gurney in the state’s death chamber and then tried to find a vein in his right leg below the knee.
Members of the execution team used a device with a red flashing light that appeared to be a way of locating veins while also periodically comforting Campbell, patting him on the arm and shoulder.
About 80 minutes after the execution was scheduled to begin, the 69- year- old Campbell shook hands with two guards after it appeared the insertion was successful. About two minutes later, media witnesses were told to leave without being told what was happening.
Gary Mohr, head of the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, said the team humanely handled the attempt, but the condition of Campbell’s veins had changed since checks in Tuesday.
He said he called off the execution after talking with the medical team. “It was my decision that it was not likely that we’re going to access veins,” Mohr said.
Campbell, who was scheduled to die for killing a teenager during a carjacking two decades ago, shook hands with execution team members and wiped away tears after being informed the execution was being called off, said his attorney, David Stebbins.
“This is a day I’ll never forget,” Campbell said, according to Stebbins.
Stebbins said he doesn’t know what will happen next, but he added that Campbell’s health problems and poor veins are a continuing problem.
Campbell will be sent back to death row and there will be some consideration for a future execution date, Mohr said.