South Carolina’s First Execution by Firing Squad in 15 Years

An illustration of a prison setting symbolizing the firing squad execution method.

News Summary

South Carolina executed Brad Keith Sigmon on March 7, 2025, marking the first firing squad execution in the U.S. in 15 years. Sigmon’s case raises ethical questions regarding capital punishment methods and has sparked public protests. His brutal crime in 2001 led to his death sentence, and his execution mirrors a growing trend among states grappling with execution methods. With 28 inmates still on death row, this case is likely to fuel ongoing debates on the morality and future of the death penalty.

South Carolina’s First Execution by Firing Squad in 15 Years

In a significant moment for the legal system, **South Carolina** executed **Brad Keith Sigmon** on March 7, 2025, marking the first time in **15 years** that a firing squad was used for an execution in the United States. This unusual method has been gaining attention as some states face challenges with traditional execution protocols.

Details of the Execution

Brad Sigmon, aged **67**, was pronounced dead at **6:08 p.m. ET** after being shot three times by volunteer prison staff at the state prison. His decision to undergo execution by firing squad rather than opting for lethal injection or electrocution raised eyebrows and highlighted ongoing concerns about the methods of capital punishment.

Sigmon’s conviction stems from a horrific incident in **2001**, during which he murdered his ex-girlfriend’s parents, **Gladys** (59) and **David Larke** (62). The brutal actions unfolded after he had been evicted from their trailer, leading him to attack the couple with a baseball bat while under the influence of crack cocaine. This shocking crime not only resulted in the loss of two lives but also included a dramatic episode where his ex-girlfriend, **Rebecca Armstrong**, was kidnapped. Thankfully, she managed to escape after Sigmon fired a gun at her.

Final Meal and Statements

On the day of his execution, Sigmon was granted a final meal that consisted of **fried chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, biscuits, cheesecake, and sweet tea**. Around the time of the execution, he made a poignant statement opposing the death penalty, urging individuals to reflect on the moral implications of such actions, especially from a religious standpoint.

Public Reaction and Protests

As history unfolded within the prison walls, dozens of protesters gathered outside, voicing their demands for an end to capital punishment. Holding signs that proclaimed phrases like **“All Life is Precious,”** the crowd was indicative of the growing movement against the death penalty that is taking shape across various states.

Declining Clemency and Support

Prior to the execution, **Governor Henry McMaster** declined to grant Sigmon clemency, keeping the legal proceedings firmly lined up for execution without further delay. Sigmon’s attorney described the entire situation as **“horrifying and violent,”** emphasizing the ethical dilemmas surrounding current methods of execution and questioning their humanity.

The Rise of Firing Squads

Sigmon’s execution is only the **fourth** firing squad execution since the death penalty was reinstated in **1976**. With only one other case in the U.S. also utilizing this method in the last **15 years**, it raises questions about the future of execution methods, particularly as many states grapple with the challenge of securing drugs needed for lethal injections.

As it stands, there are still **28 other inmates** on death row in South Carolina alone, and with executions having resumed after a **13-year hiatus**, it appears as if this topic will remain at the forefront of discussions surrounding justice and morality in capital punishment.

Looking Ahead

As emotional and divisive as capital punishment is, Sigmon’s case will likely stir debates for years to come—especially as more states look into alternatives for executing sentences due to the increasing complexities around traditional methods. With strong sentiments on either side of the debate, it’s clear that the questions surrounding justice, ethics, and human rights remain more relevant than ever.

In summary, the state of South Carolina has embarked on a new chapter in its approach to handling capital punishment, and Brad Sigmon’s choice leads to more profound inquiries about the direction in which the legal system is heading.