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Alabama executed a death row prisoner Thursday using nitrogen gas, becoming the first state in the U.S. to use the gas in an execution, despite concerns about the untested method.
Kenneth Smith, 58, died at 8:25 p.m. Central Time, after a slew of last-minute appeals to several courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, failed.
The execution started at 7:53 p.m., according to John Hamm, Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Corrections. At approximately 7:55 p.m., Kenneth Smith gave his last words.
“Tonight, Alabama caused humanity to take a step backwards,” Smith said. “I’m leaving with love, peace and light. Thank you for supporting me, love all of you.”
Hamm said nitrogen flowed for around 15 minutes. The gas was administered through a mask, while two execution workers, in addition to Smith’s spiritual adviser, Rev. Dr. Jeff Hood, looked on. Media witnesses said Smith appeared conscious for about ten minutes. He shook and writhed for about two minutes on the gurney, followed by about five minutes of heavy breathing.
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