(NewsNation) — Idaho lawmakers have advanced a bill to make a firing squad the state’s primary method of execution, as the trial of accused University of Idaho killer Bryan Kohberger approaches.
“It’s very rapid. You’re completely unconscious very quickly,” firing squad expert Dr. James Williams said during an appearance on NewsNation’s “Banfield.”
Williams, who joined host Ashleigh Banfield to discuss what could happen during a firing squad execution, said blood flow from the heart ceases immediately, comparing it to the instant effects of a guillotine.
According to Williams, during an execution, the target is placed on the inmate’s chest, with witnesses surrounding the scene. The method is based on the expectation that bullets will hit the heart, causing it to rupture, leading to immediate unconsciousness and rapid blood loss, resulting in death.
Bill sponsor Rep. Bruce Skaug told Fox News a firing squad has less appellate issues and is “more humane” than other forms of execution.
The new legislation would make the firing squad the primary means of execution in Idaho, rather than a backup. The proposed Idaho firing squad would be “mechanized” and automated, according to the Idaho Capital Sun.
Mississippi, Utah, Oklahoma and South Carolina currently authorize firing squads as a form of execution.
Bryan Kohberger can face death penalty if convicted
Kohberger, accused of killing four University of Idaho students Nov. 13, 2022, can face the death penalty if convicted, a judge ruled last November.
Kohberger’s defense team sought to remove the death penalty as a possible punishment, but Hippler denied its request.
The deaths of Madison Mogen, 21; Kaylee Goncalves, 21; Xana Kernodle, 20; and Ethan Chapin, 20, shocked the small town of Moscow. Initially, investigators had few leads and spent considerable time tracing the activities of the four students in the hours prior to their deaths.