Tennessee's failed execution of Christa Pike leaves her in critical condition after two doses of lethal injection. The botched attempt has reignited debate over the death penalty in the U.S.
Pike, 50, was injected with two doses of pentobarbital during a botched execution attempt in Tennessee. Her attorneys say she is unconscious and on a ventilator, marking the first known survival of lethal injection in modern history.
Tennessee officials have temporarily paused executions following the failed attempt, with Governor Bill Lee calling it a tragedy. The state's Department of Corrections claims it followed established protocols, but experts warn of a rising failure rate in lethal injections.
Pike's case highlights concerns over the death penalty's viability, with her attorneys urging a reduction to life in prison. The incident has sparked calls for a third-party review and questions about future execution attempts given her medical condition.