Christa Pike's Execution in Tennessee Fails After Two Doses of Drugs
Despite pentobarbital injections, the inmate remained conscious and continued breathing, and was taken to the hospital.
The scheduled execution of death row inmate Christa Pike in the state of Tennessee failed after two doses of pentobarbital proved ineffective and the inmate continued to breathe consciously.
Execution Process and First Injection
Christa Pike was sentenced to death for a murder committed in 1995. Strapped to the gurney around 7:30 PM on Wednesday, Pike stated in her final statement that she was at peace and leaving the world with love. When the curtain in the execution chamber was lifted, she was seen singing and smiling with her spiritual advisor.
Failure of the Drug to Take Effect and Second Round
Following the first round of pentobarbital injection, Pike reported pain in her arm and continued to respond, prompting a second round of the drug according to protocol. However, as time passed, it was determined that the inmate did not completely lose consciousness, moved her head, and made snoring-like sounds.
Transfer to Hospital and Legal Process
Pike's attorney, Randy Spivey, requested a stay of execution and life-saving medical intervention. Following the wait inside, ambulances and fire trucks arrived at the prison around 9:14 PM, facilitating the inmate's transfer to an outside hospital.
Officials' Statements and Reactions
The Tennessee Department of Correction stated that the protocol was fully implemented and Pike was transported to the hospital. Describing the events as deeply disturbing, Governor Bill Lee initiated an investigation, while May Martinez, the mother of the murdered Colleen Slemmer, stated that justice was not served.