Tennessee halts remaining 2026 execution after Pike survives injection attempt
Christa Pike survived two lethal injection doses in the state’s second failed execution this year, prompting the governor to order a review.
Tennessee has halted its only remaining scheduled execution for 2026 after death row inmate Christa Pike survived an attempted execution on Wednesday. Governor Bill Lee ordered a comprehensive review, according to France 24 International.
Pike, 50, survived two lethal injection doses. The attempt was the state’s second failed execution this year. The available information does not explain why the injections failed or provide an update on her condition.
Pike was sentenced to death for the 1995 killing of 19-year-old Colleen Slemmer, when Pike was 18. She had been set to become the first woman executed in Tennessee in 200 years.
Tennessee officials said staff followed the state’s approved execution protocol. The governor’s review follows the failed attempt; its scope and findings have not been specified.
