Alabama Prepares for First Execution Using Nitrogen Hypoxia

Kenneth Eugene Smith, who survived a previous execution attempt, faces untested method amid legal challenges and ethical concerns.

Alabama is preparing to execute Kenneth Eugene Smith using nitrogen hypoxia, a method that has never been used before in capital punishment.
Smith survived a previous execution attempt by lethal injection in 2022, which was called off after officials failed to find a vein.
Critics argue that the use of nitrogen hypoxia is akin to human experimentation, and Smith's lawyers claim that the state is making him a 'test subject' for a novel execution method.
Concerns have been raised about the mask used to administer the gas, with claims that it is not airtight and could lead to a prolonged execution or leave Smith in a vegetative state.
Legal challenges are underway, with Smith's lawyers arguing that the proposed procedures violate the ban on cruel and unusual punishment and his due process rights.