Overview

• Mikal Mahdi, executed by firing squad on April 11, endured excruciating pain for 30–60 seconds after two bullets missed his heart, according to autopsy findings.
• Witnesses reported Mahdi groaned 45 seconds after being shot and continued breathing for up to 80 seconds before dying, contrary to the expected rapid death from proper protocol.
• The state autopsy found only two bullet wounds, with conflicting claims suggesting one bullet may have entered through the same spot, a possibility experts called highly unlikely.
• Dr. Jonathan Arden criticized the execution process, citing misplaced shots, inadequate training, and insufficient autopsy documentation, including missing X-rays and clothing analysis.
• Mahdi’s attorneys have filed a ‘notice of botched execution’ with the South Carolina Supreme Court, challenging the firing squad’s compliance with Eighth Amendment standards on humane punishment.