Brad Sigmon, 67, was executed by firing squad in South Carolina, the first such execution in the U.S. in 15 years. He chose this method over lethal injection or the electric chair due to concerns about their potential effects. Three prison employees carried out the execution, firing simultaneously at Sigmon from 15 feet away. Sigmon’s last statement urged fellow Christians to abolish the death penalty.
Jordan Dove, 34, died from injuries sustained after triggering a shotgun booby trap at a family member’s vacant home in Saint Matthews, South Carolina. Calhoun County Sheriff’s deputies discovered the booby-trapped shotgun upon securing the scene, which also revealed barricaded doors. Authorities have identified Alfonzo Brown, currently incarcerated, as a suspect and anticipate filing charges. Sheriff Summers noted the inherent danger to law enforcement posed by such a situation, emphasizing the ongoing threat faced by officers daily.
Brad Sigmon, a South Carolina death row inmate, has opted for execution by firing squad on March 7th, becoming the first U.S. inmate to choose this method in 15 years. His decision stems from concerns regarding the prolonged suffering witnessed in recent lethal injections in the state, as well as the potential for a painful death by electric chair. Sigmon’s lawyers have filed an appeal citing ineffective counsel at his trial, but the state’s Supreme Court has yet to rule. His final chance for clemency rests with the governor.
Following a two-month search, all 43 rhesus macaque monkeys that escaped from the Alpha Genesis Primate Research Center in Yemassee, South Carolina have been safely recovered. The last four monkeys were recaptured this week and appear healthy. The escape occurred due to unsecured doors, and the young, female primates were never used in research. Local police and the Alpha Genesis facility expressed gratitude for community assistance in the successful recapture effort.
McColl, South Carolina Mayor George Garner II died in a car accident while being pursued by law enforcement, the chase intended to ensure his well-being rather than for any alleged crime. This incident follows the resignation of the town’s entire police force just days prior, citing a hostile work environment created by repeated harassment and personal attacks from a town council member. The former police chief also cited Garner as the source of a hostile work environment in a previous resignation. Garner had recently won re-election.
John Q. Hosedrinker