US EditionSC representatives say firing squad execution was 'botched': letter
- Two South Carolina legislators requested an independent investigation into the April 11, 2025 firing squad execution of inmate Mikal Mahdi in Columbia.
- The request came after attorneys for Mahdi reported that his autopsy revealed the bullets did not directly hit his heart, resulting in prolonged and severe pain for up to a minute, raising questions about the conduct of the execution.
- Legislators Bamberg and Collins asked the governor, corrections officials, and state lawmakers for a comprehensive review and suspension of firing squad executions pending investigation.
- Pathologist Dr. Jonathan Arden, hired by Mahdi's attorneys, described the unusual wound patterns as 'extraordinarily uncommon' and indicated Mahdi likely remained conscious and in pain for 30 seconds to a minute.
- Governor McMaster declined to open a probe, expressing confidence in corrections leadership, while lawmakers warned the investigation is essential to uphold justice system integrity and prevent possible constitutional violations.
14 Articles
14 Articles
Lawmakers seek investigation into South Carolina’s latest firing squad execution
Two South Carolina legislators have requested an investigation into the state’s firing squad execution last month after lawyers for the inmate said his autopsy showed the shots nearly missed his heart and left him in extreme pain for up to a minute.
Lawmakers seek investigation into South Carolina’s firing squad execution
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Two South Carolina legislators have requested an investigation into the state's firing squad execution last month after lawyers for the inmate said his autopsy showed the shots nearly missed his heart and left him in extreme…
SC representatives say firing squad execution was 'botched': letter
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) - Representatives in South Carolina have filed a letter to state leaders saying Mikal Mahdi's execution was, in their words, botched. Representative Neal Collins (R - Pickens) and Representative Justin Bamberg (D - Bamberg) filed the letter on Monday. Lawyers for man executed by firing squad in South Carolina say bullets mostly missed his heart "What this is about is, making sure that when we do execute as a state, pe…
scdailygazette.com
Index-Journal2 SC legislators call for independent investigation into latest execution
The above shows the execution chamber in the Department of Corrections' Columbia prisons complex, as seen from the witness room. The firing squad chair (left) was added following a 2021 state law that made death by firing squad an option. The electric chair is under the cover. (Provided by the S.C. Department of Corrections)COLUMBIA — Two South Carolina legislators are calling for an investigation into last month’s execution by firing squad, acc…
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