Legal Literacy - The state of Alabama executed Kenneth Eugene Smith, 58, with nitrogen gas on Thursday, January 25, 2024. This is the First Execution by Nitrogen Gas in the United States.

Smith was convicted of murdering a woman named Mary Ellen Deener in 1988. He shot Deener four times in the head at her home in Birmingham, Alabama.

At the execution, Smith was strapped to a gurney in the death chamber at the William C. Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore, Alabama. Pure nitrogen gas was then piped into a face mask covering his nose and mouth.

Smith was pronounced dead at 8:25 p.m. local time. The execution lasted approximately 22 minutes.

His execution sparked controversy. Supporters of the nitrogen gas method say it is a humane and quick method. They argue that nitrogen gas causes death by causing the victim to experience hypoxia, or lack of oxygen.

Critics of the method say it is cruel and inhumane. They argue that the victim could experience panic and fear while dying.

The UN has also criticised the nitrogen gas method. The UN says that the method may cause "unnecessary pain and suffering." Alabama is

the first state to use nitrogen gas for executions. Other states, including Oklahoma, Mississippi, and Tennessee, are also considering using the method. Source:

First U.S. execution using nitrogen prompts outrage" - Associated Press, Jan 26, 2024: