Execution of Brad Keith Sigmon by Firing Squad in South Carolina

Introduction

On March 7, 2025, South Carolina conducted its first execution by firing squad in 15 years, marking a significant moment in the state's capital punishment history. Brad Keith Sigmon, a 67-year-old inmate convicted of double murder, was executed at the Broad River Correctional Institution in Columbia.

Background of the Crime

In 2001, Brad Sigmon was found guilty of the brutal murders of David and Gladys Larke, the parents of his ex-girlfriend, Rebecca Barbare. The incident occurred after Barbare ended their relationship, prompting Sigmon to attack her parents with a baseball bat at their Greenville County home.

Legal Proceedings and Appeals

Following his conviction, Sigmon was sentenced to death. Over the years, he filed multiple appeals, citing factors such as childhood abuse, mental illness, and brain damage. Despite these efforts, his appeals were denied, and the South Carolina Supreme Court issued his death warrant on February 7, 2025, scheduling the execution for March 7, 2025.

Choice of Execution Method

South Carolina offers inmates the choice between lethal injection, electrocution, or firing squad. Due to concerns about the availability and potential suffering associated with lethal injection drugs, as well as the perceived cruelty of the electric chair, Sigmon opted for the firing squad.

Execution Procedure

The execution took place at the Broad River Correctional Institution. Sigmon was restrained in a chair, hooded, and had a target placed over his heart. Three volunteers armed with rifles stood 15 feet away, concealed behind a wall with openings to aim through. Upon the warden's command, they fired simultaneously, resulting in Sigmon's death.

Controversy and Public Reaction

The use of a firing squad has been a subject of intense debate. Critics argue that it is a barbaric and outdated method of execution, while others contend that it is a more humane alternative to lethal injection, which has been associated with prolonged and painful deaths. Dr. James Williams, an expert against the death penalty, suggests that firing squads are more reliable and less prone to error, ensuring a quicker death.

Victims' Family Perspective

Rebecca Armstrong, formerly Rebecca Barbare, expressed conflicted feelings about Sigmon's execution. While she does not believe in the death penalty, she acknowledges the need for Sigmon to face consequences for murdering her parents. Her son, the Larkes' grandson, attended the execution, seeking closure for the loss of his grandparents.

Conclusion

The execution of Brad Keith Sigmon by firing squad has reignited discussions about the methods and ethics of capital punishment in the United States. As states grapple with drug shortages and legal challenges associated with lethal injection, alternative methods like the firing squad may become more prevalent, prompting further debate on humane practices in the justice system.