Nitrogen gas in execution sets a dangerous precedent

On Jan. 25, the state of Alabama executed Kenneth “Kenny” Smith using a new, untested method: nitrogen gas. It was a first such execution in the United States.

The state had predicted the nitrogen gas would cause unconsciousness within seconds and death within minutes, but Smith’s family and advocates have since described Smith’s execution as 22 minutes of hell. Smith’s chaplain, the Rev. Jeff Hood, who once served as a trauma chaplain in Fort Worth, descried the execution to the online news site Slate in a piece titled “It Was the Most Violent Thing I’ve Ever Seen.”

Witnesses said Smith appeared to remain conscious for several minutes. He appeared to shake and writhe on the gurney, sometimes pulling against the restraints. Then came several minutes of heavy breathing, until his breathing was no longer detectable. He was pronounced dead at 8:25 p.m.

Smith, 58, had been convicted and sentenced to die for the 1988 murderfor-hire slaying of Elizabeth Sennett. This was the second attempt to execute him. In 2022, his lethal injection was called off when authorities couldn’t connect an IV.

Lethal injection has been the most common method for executions since its introduction in 1982. But there’s been increased difficulty obtaining or administering the lethal chemicals.

The use of nitrogen gas for an execution in Alabama sets a precedent that could be replicated in Texas, which leads the nation in executions.

In his final statement, Smith first made the “I love you sign” with his hands toward family members, and thanked them for their support and love. His final words were: “Tonight Alabama causes humanity to take a step backwards . ... I’m leaving with love, peace and light.”

How the state treats people, even those convicted of heinous crimes, is a reflection of our values and humanity. Death by nitrogen gas crosses that line.