After Surviving Botched Execution, Christa Pike Breaks Silence: ‘Searching for Meaning’
Pike speaks after failed attempt
Pike has made her first public comments since surviving the execution attempt in Tennessee. The attempt took place on September 30 at Riverbend men’s prison. She said she entered the execution chamber expecting to die and had made peace with that prospect. The attempt involved two doses of pentobarbital, the lethal injection drug.
She describes lasting pain
Pike said she woke up in a hospital several days later, alone, confused and hurting. She reported that pain had continued from the night of the attempt. She described pain in her body, arms, hands and throat, and said she still has difficulty speaking. Pike also spoke of suffering beyond the physical effects.
Pain affects mind and soul
In her account, Pike said the ordeal had left her with emotional and mental pain as well. She described it as pain in her mind and soul. Her remarks offer her first account of what followed the failed execution. The reporting identifies her as a Tennessee death row inmate.
Key points
- Christa Pike survived a failed execution attempt in Tennessee on September 30.
- The attempt involved two doses of the lethal injection drug pentobarbital.
- Pike said she woke in hospital several days later, confused and in pain.
- She reported continuing physical pain and suffering affecting her mind and soul.