Fort Hood Shooter’s Firing Squad Execution May Influence Future Methods

The upcoming execution of Nidal Malik Hasan, the Fort Hood shooter, by firing squad might pave the way for similar executions in other states, according to an expert on the death penalty. Deborah Denno, a professor at Fordham Law, mentioned that if Hasan’s execution on December 3 goes smoothly—and, well, there’s always a question of how someone experiences it—it’s possible this method will be considered for other inmates as well.

In recent years, states like Idaho, Utah, and South Carolina have looked to firing squads as an alternative following the diminishing popularity of lethal injections.

Earlier this week, the Trump administration revealed that Hasan would face execution by firing squad after being sentenced to death in 2013 for a shooting at the Army base that resulted in 13 deaths and 32 injuries. The Pentagon confirmed that they intend to livestream the execution.

Denno explained that many see the firing squad as a reliable and, in some views, less inhumane method of execution. It’s kind of crafted to be quicker and more definite. Interestingly, studies suggest that those executed by firing squad may actually experience less pain compared to lethal injections or other forms of capital punishment.

Another point Denno made is about the availability of skilled shooters. There are plenty of people trained in shooting, be it from law enforcement or as a personal hobby, making it easier to find volunteers for this method compared to others.

Historically speaking, the last military execution in the U.S. was in 1961, involving Pvt. John A. Bennett, who was hanged after being found guilty of serious crimes.

Denno has previously asserted that firing squads have been relatively effective and humane throughout U.S. history, with very few issues. Recently, however, the method has seen a resurgence due to issues surrounding the availability and reliability of lethal injection drugs.

In a somewhat troubling instance last week, a Tennessee inmate survived an execution attempt where two doses of pentobarbital failed to kill him, raising questions about the suitability of lethal injections going forward.

Also noteworthy is the case of Christa Pike, who was sentenced to death for a 1995 murder but, during a recent execution attempt, experienced a failed lethal injection. There’s ongoing discourse about the implications of these failed attempts.

Firing squads seem to have fewer controversies historically. Until recently, only a couple of problematic executions were noted. Still, there was a case last year in South Carolina that raised eyebrows when questions emerged about whether the executioner hit the intended target accurately.

In that case, Mikal Mahdi was executed, but his team alleged that the firing squad did not strike the target as intended, leading to a possibly prolonged death. This incident has invoked concern and may influence how future firing squad executions are viewed.

As we approach Hasan’s execution date, Denno reflected that this is certainly a matter to keep an eye on. The implications of how it unfolds could have long-lasting effects across the country.