Christa Pike, who had been on death row for three decades, is currently in hospital after the killer was left in critical condition as a result of a botched execution. The 50-year-old was admitted with swollen, burned and blistered arms after two doses of pentobarbital failed to kill her.
Prison chief to step down
Tennessee's prison chief, Frank Strada, is stepping down later this month following backlash from the disturbing incident. According to CNN, Strada has overseen execution missteps in two states.
Less than three years prior to Pike's hospitalisation, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee brought on Strada to lead the Department of Corrections with the task of reforming the state's execution system following concerns over its approach to the death penalty.
Previous concerns in Arizona
However, in Strada's former role as an official in Arizona's prison, there were three executions he oversaw that administrators and observers raised concerns over. They claimed that the executioners defied the state's official policies.
Now, under his current role, Pike is the second person whom Tennessee officials have failed to properly execute this year. The multiple incidents involving problems with the IV injections have not only shone a light on Tennessee's execution process, but also Strada's supervision.
Strada's statement and legal action
In a statement, Strada said that his stepping down is "in the best interests" of the state, adding that the ongoing investigation into the incident is "entirely appropriate and necessary".
Whether or not Pike will undergo another execution has not been confirmed as of yet. Her lawyers filed an emergency motion on Friday to preserve "any and all evidence" related to her failed execution, in order for accountability to be taken.
