Scientists in Alabama, US, have discovered a completely new genus and species of cavefish after studying an underground cave system for around 30 years. The eyeless, pale fish has been named the “Demon Cavefish” and represents a previously unknown evolutionary lineage.


Demon Cavefish found: The rare eyeless predators hiding in plain sight 

Donald Trump, now the US President-elect, won the 2024 presidential election by sweeping 312 electoral votes and defeating the Republican candidate Kamala Harris who secured 226 electoral votes.

Donald Trump, now the US President-elect, won the 2024 presidential election by sweeping 312 electoral votes and defeating the Republican candidate Kamala Harris who secured 226 electoral votes. Trump won the state of Alabama, sweeping its nine electoral votes with 64.8 per cent votes. Also read | US election: Opinion pollsters are biggest losers. Time to ask them questions Alabama has always been a Republican stronghold and consistently voted for GOP presidential candidates since 1980. US House Race Democrat Shomari Figures won in Abama's second Congressional District. The Republican Caroleene Dobson lost in the district. Republican U.S. Rep. Barry Moore won in Alabama's District 1 in other US House races of the state. In District 6 of the state, US Representative Gary Palmer was reelected in the 2024 elections. The US Representative Terri Sewell, a Democrat, won and was reelected in District 7. Republican incumbents in Districts 3, 4, and 5 were not challenged in the November 5 election. When will Senate races and other state offices be up for election? Also read | US elections 2024: How Trump won against Harris- 15 things that worked for him In the 2024 election, the US Senate, governor and state Legislature were not on the ballot. Alabama's US Senator Tommy Tuberville's seat will go to polls in 2026. US Senators serve for six years in one term. U.S. Sen. Katie Britt, elected in 2022, will be running again for the seat in 2028. Who won in 2020 in the state? The Republican Donald Trump won Alabama in the 2020 elections with 62.03 per cent votes compared to the Democrat Joe Biden's 36.57 per cent. 2024 Election Results In the 2024 election, Donald Trump was reelected in the state, defeating Democrat Kamala Harris. (With inputs from agencies)

Alabama US Presidential Election 2024 results: House, Senate, local elections - What we know

A man convicted of murdering a hitchhiker 30 years ago has become the third person in the United States to be executed by nitrogen gas.

U.S. State of Alabama's Third Execution Using Nitrogen Gas | GRAVITAS

US Election Result 2024: It is highly likely that the election results will be delayed well after the night of November 5 in the US, or into the next morning, as Democrat Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump are locked in what pollsters predicted would be a supertight race for president.

Unless that is, the pollsters were wrong and one candidate has a very clear, unassailable lead in the electoral college votes.

The majority mark for the Electoral College votes is 270, out of 538.

Watch: US Election Results: Will US Get Its First Woman President In Harris? | WION US Poll Coverage

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At the time of writing this, the Associated Press news agency is projecting more electoral college votes for Trump than Harris. The AP projections are considered near-official.

But these victories for Trump in states like Flordia, Indiana, Oklahoma, Kentucky, Tenessee, Mississipi, Alabama, West Virginia and South Carolina are too early to confirm a national trend and include traditionally Republican, or red states.

The final results will be known only when battleground states finish their voting, and this election cycle, there are seven of them out of the total 50: Pennsylvania, Georgia, North Carolina, Michigan, Arizona, Wisconsin and Nevada.

The early leads for Trump happened in 2020 too, only to dash his hopes and reject the outcome as his Democratic rival Joe Biden won the electoral college votes and became president.

This time, the Trump camp is keeping a 'wait and watch' approach. Earlier reports had said that Trump was not going to immediately address the press on election night.&nbsp;

Counting is already slow, as long lines in some polling stations meant that polling is going to continue late into the evening.

The counting of absentee ballots is going to be long and tedious, as identity checking and verification is going to take time.&nbsp;

In both in-person and postal ballots, there are chances of legal challenges too, complicating and delaying the process futher.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trump-media-reports-192-million-loss-in-q3-revenue-declines-on-election-day-filing-773767">Also read: Trump Media reports $19.2 million loss in Q3, revenue declines on election day filing</a> 
 
Early voting has been very impressive this year, both by mail and in person, adding up to over 80 million. Counting of these, particularly postal ones, is going to be slow, as it has to be thorough and could see many legal challenges, particularly from the Trump camp.

Some media reports are saying that the results may not be complete untill Wednesday evening, local time.

That's mainly becase the battlegound states also saw high percentage of early voting.

When the results reach a deadheat situation, particularly in battleground states, legal challenges and demands for recounts could follow. In cases of razor-thin victory margins, this could be more pertinent.

Election rules vary by state, but generally speaking, many states allow for recounting if the margin is narrow, or by a percentage points. If this happens in cases where the absolute number of votes is in tens of thousands, counting could take more hours, or perhaps another day, to finsh.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2024-biden-calls-for-trump-to-be-jailed-lock-him-uppolitically-769881">Also read: US elections 2024: Biden calls for Trump to be jailed, quickly backtracks. 'Lock him up...'</a> 
 
This is what happened in the equally contentious presidntial race of 2020. While the elections took place on November 3, the final electoral college results came in on November 7 after days of counting and recounting.

That's a far cry from 2016, when Trump, fighting the race for the first time, was declared winner on election night itself, as his Democratic rival Hillary Clinton conceded.

So, given Trump's penchant for litigation and unfounded vote-rigging allegations, the only scenario where the results could come at the end of Election Night is if he is at an unassailable lead in the electoral college voting.

That appears unlikely as, at the time of writing, Trump is ahead in 188 seats, with Harris closing in at nearly 100, with most battleground state results yet to come in.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

US Election Result 2024: It is highly likely that the election results will be delayed well after the night of November 5 in the US, or into the next morning, as Democrat Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump are locked in what pollsters predicted would be a supertight race for president.

US Election Result 2024: It is highly likely that the election results will be delayed well after the night of November 5 in the US, or into the next morning, as Democrat Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump are locked in what pollsters predicted would be a supertight race for president. Unless that is, the pollsters were wrong and one candidate has a very clear, unassailable lead in the electoral college votes. The majority mark for the Electoral College votes is 270, out of 538. Watch: US Election Results: Will US Get Its First Woman President In Harris? | WION US Poll Coverage × At the time of writing this, the Associated Press news agency is projecting more electoral college votes for Trump than Harris. The AP projections are considered near-official. But these victories for Trump in states like Flordia, Indiana, Oklahoma, Kentucky, Tenessee, Mississipi, Alabama, West Virginia and South Carolina are too early to confirm a national trend and include traditionally Republican, or red states. The final results will be known only when battleground states finish their voting, and this election cycle, there are seven of them out of the total 50: Pennsylvania, Georgia, North Carolina, Michigan, Arizona, Wisconsin and Nevada. The early leads for Trump happened in 2020 too, only to dash his hopes and reject the outcome as his Democratic rival Joe Biden won the electoral college votes and became president. This time, the Trump camp is keeping a 'wait and watch' approach. Earlier reports had said that Trump was not going to immediately address the press on election night. Counting is already slow, as long lines in some polling stations meant that polling is going to continue late into the evening. The counting of absentee ballots is going to be long and tedious, as identity checking and verification is going to take time. In both in-person and postal ballots, there are chances of legal challenges too, complicating and delaying the process futher. Also read: Trump Media reports $19.2 million loss in Q3, revenue declines on election day filing Early voting has been very impressive this year, both by mail and in person, adding up to over 80 million. Counting of these, particularly postal ones, is going to be slow, as it has to be thorough and could see many legal challenges, particularly from the Trump camp. Some media reports are saying that the results may not be complete untill Wednesday evening, local time. That's mainly becase the battlegound states also saw high percentage of early voting. When the results reach a deadheat situation, particularly in battleground states, legal challenges and demands for recounts could follow. In cases of razor-thin victory margins, this could be more pertinent. Election rules vary by state, but generally speaking, many states allow for recounting if the margin is narrow, or by a percentage points. If this happens in cases where the absolute number of votes is in tens of thousands, counting could take more hours, or perhaps another day, to finsh. Also read: US elections 2024: Biden calls for Trump to be jailed, quickly backtracks. 'Lock him up...' This is what happened in the equally contentious presidntial race of 2020. While the elections took place on November 3, the final electoral college results came in on November 7 after days of counting and recounting. That's a far cry from 2016, when Trump, fighting the race for the first time, was declared winner on election night itself, as his Democratic rival Hillary Clinton conceded. So, given Trump's penchant for litigation and unfounded vote-rigging allegations, the only scenario where the results could come at the end of Election Night is if he is at an unassailable lead in the electoral college voting. That appears unlikely as, at the time of writing, Trump is ahead in 188 seats, with Harris closing in at nearly 100, with most battleground state results yet to come in. (With inputs from agencies)

US Election results could take longer, even another day, unless...

As the counting of votes takes place in the ongoing presidential elections in the United States, tensions escalated in some areas of the country, and political polarisation led to acts of&nbsp;vandalism.&nbsp;

Reporting one such incident, a Reddit post claimed that a car with a&nbsp;Harris/Walz sticker was vandalised by Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump's supporters in an act of political&nbsp;violence in the state of Alabama.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-man-charged-for-making-death-threats-against-joe-biden-hillary-clinton-773743">US man charged for making death threats against Joe Biden, Hillary Clinton</a>

A lot of people are fearful of violence escalating if the former president loses, however, the projections hint otherwise.&nbsp;

<h2>Here's what the Reddit post claimed</h2>

In the Reddit post, an image was shared which showed the act of vandalism in Alabama. In the image, the car was seen having a Harris/Walz sticker and its glass was completely shattered after an alleged attack by Trump supporters.

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It appeared that the hooligans had defaced the vehicle. The rear windshield of the car was also shattered and the sticker with the name of the&nbsp;Democratic&nbsp;nominee and her running mate was crossed out at the bottom right corner using black spray paint.

With the help of the spray paint, they also wrote “Trump” on both the back and front sides of the car.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;US Elections 2024: Bomb Threats At Different Polling Stations?

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The polls have closed in the 2024 presidential election&nbsp;battleground states and people are waiting with bated breath for the winner of the historic presidential election.&nbsp;

Trump is leading the race against Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris, and Republicans have managed to take control of the Senate for the first time in four years after key victories in West Virginia, Ohio, and Nebraska.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the counting of votes takes place in the ongoing presidential elections in the United States, tensions escalated in some areas of the country, and political polarisation led to acts of vandalism.

As the counting of votes takes place in the ongoing presidential elections in the United States, tensions escalated in some areas of the country, and political polarisation led to acts of vandalism. Reporting one such incident, a Reddit post claimed that a car with a Harris/Walz sticker was vandalised by Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump's supporters in an act of political violence in the state of Alabama. Also Read: US man charged for making death threats against Joe Biden, Hillary Clinton A lot of people are fearful of violence escalating if the former president loses, however, the projections hint otherwise. Here's what the Reddit post claimed In the Reddit post, an image was shared which showed the act of vandalism in Alabama. In the image, the car was seen having a Harris/Walz sticker and its glass was completely shattered after an alleged attack by Trump supporters. Trump supporters in Alabama vandalized a vehicle with a Harris/Walz sticker byu/TheLaraSuChronicles inpics × It appeared that the hooligans had defaced the vehicle. The rear windshield of the car was also shattered and the sticker with the name of the Democratic nominee and her running mate was crossed out at the bottom right corner using black spray paint. With the help of the spray paint, they also wrote “Trump” on both the back and front sides of the car. Watch: US Elections 2024: Bomb Threats At Different Polling Stations? The polls have closed in the 2024 presidential election battleground states and people are waiting with bated breath for the winner of the historic presidential election. Trump is leading the race against Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris, and Republicans have managed to take control of the Senate for the first time in four years after key victories in West Virginia, Ohio, and Nebraska. (With inputs from agencies)

Car with Harris/Walz stickers gets vandalised by Trump supporters in Alabama

At least four people have been killed and multiple injured in a mass shooting in Birmingham, Alabama. The shooting took place in the Five Points South district, an area known for its nightlife.

US: At Least 4 Killed in Mass Shoot Out in Alabama

US: Mass Shooting in Alabama Leaves 4 Dead, Multiple Injured

The United States Department of Labor filed a complaint on Thursday against South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Co., an auto parts company, and a labour recruiter for the illegal use of child labour at an Alabama facility.<o:p></o:p>

The complaint, filed in U.S. District Court in Montgomery, Alabama, also seeks an order forcing the firms to return any profits generated using child labour.<o:p></o:p>

In 2022, Reuters reported that a Hyundai subsidiary and other parts suppliers in the Southern state employed youngsters as young as 12. The three defendants named in the current Labor Department petition for hiring a 13-year-old child are Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama LLC, SMART Alabama LLC, an auto parts company, and Best Practice Service LLC, a recruiting firm.<o:p></o:p>

The Department's Wage and Hour Division discovered that the kid had worked up to 60 hours per week on a SMART assembly line, where he operated equipment that shaped sheet metal into automobile parts. The SMART facility supplies parts to Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, which manufactures popular models such as the Hyundai Santa Fe, Tucson, and Santa Cruz.<o:p></o:p>

According to the complaint filed with the Labour Department, SMART informed the employment firm that "two additional employees were not welcome back at the facility due to their appearance and other physical characteristics, which suggested they were also underage."<o:p></o:p>

"Companies cannot avoid liability by blaming suppliers or staffing companies for child labour violations when they are also employers," stated Solicitor of Labour Seema Nanda in a news statement.<o:p></o:p>

The case highlights continued worries about child labour practices in big firms' supply networks, particularly in locations with considerable industrial activity.<o:p></o:p>

Hyundai Motor Co. and the connected defendants have yet to release a statement regarding the complaint. The case emphasises the need for strict adherence to labour rules, as well as global firms' ethical duties to maintain safe and lawful working conditions throughout their supply chains.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

The United States Department of Labor filed a complaint on Thursday against South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Co., an auto parts company, and a labour recruiter for the illegal use of child labour at an Alabama facility.

The United States Department of Labor filed a complaint on Thursday against South Korean automaker Hyundai Motor Co., an auto parts company, and a labour recruiter for the illegal use of child labour at an Alabama facility. The complaint, filed in U.S. District Court in Montgomery, Alabama, also seeks an order forcing the firms to return any profits generated using child labour. In 2022, Reuters reported that a Hyundai subsidiary and other parts suppliers in the Southern state employed youngsters as young as 12. The three defendants named in the current Labor Department petition for hiring a 13-year-old child are Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama LLC, SMART Alabama LLC, an auto parts company, and Best Practice Service LLC, a recruiting firm. The Department's Wage and Hour Division discovered that the kid had worked up to 60 hours per week on a SMART assembly line, where he operated equipment that shaped sheet metal into automobile parts. The SMART facility supplies parts to Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama, which manufactures popular models such as the Hyundai Santa Fe, Tucson, and Santa Cruz. According to the complaint filed with the Labour Department, SMART informed the employment firm that "two additional employees were not welcome back at the facility due to their appearance and other physical characteristics, which suggested they were also underage." "Companies cannot avoid liability by blaming suppliers or staffing companies for child labour violations when they are also employers," stated Solicitor of Labour Seema Nanda in a news statement. The case highlights continued worries about child labour practices in big firms' supply networks, particularly in locations with considerable industrial activity. Hyundai Motor Co. and the connected defendants have yet to release a statement regarding the complaint. The case emphasises the need for strict adherence to labour rules, as well as global firms' ethical duties to maintain safe and lawful working conditions throughout their supply chains. (With inputs from Reuters)

US Department of Labour sues Hyundai over child labour in Alabama

Tornado-spawning thunderstorms that swept the southern plains and the Ozark mountains over the memorial day holiday weekend killed at least 21 people across four US States.

US Storms: Severe storms bring new risks to central Texas

Devastating tornadoes and severe storms swept through the central United States over the weekend and resulted in at least 23 fatalities across Kentucky, Alabama, Oklahoma and Arkansas. Watch in for more details!

US: Over 200 homes flattened after powerful storms hit US, rescue efforts underway

In the United States, a man who is a convicted killer on death row has said that he wants to be executed so the families of the people he killed in 2016 can have justice and get closure. The man, identified as Derrick Dearman, told NBC News that he has sent letters to Gov. Kay Ivey and other officials to inform them that he is dropping his appeals.&nbsp;

In a phone interview from prison, the 36-year-old said, "Now it’s time for the victims and their families to get the justice they rightly deserve to start the closure."&nbsp;

He also said that his decision doesn't mean that other inmates on death row should do the same. "There's guys in the general population that committed way worse crimes than half the guys on death row. There's some guys here on death row, if you would let them go today, they would never commit a crime and be productive members of society," he added.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-prison-inmates-who-sued-department-will-finally-watch-solar-eclipse-708215">New York prison inmates, who sued department, will finally watch solar eclipse</a>&nbsp;

Dearman murdered five people at a home in Citronelle, Alabama, with a gun and an axe in August 2016. He was high on meth when he committed the crime. One of the victims, 22-year-old Chelsea Marie Reed, was five months pregnant, hence, the judges had convicted him on six counts of murder.&nbsp;

Other victims were Shannon Melissa Randall (35), Robert Lee Brown (26), Justin Kaleb Reed (23), and Joseph Adam Turner (26). He had also kidnapped Lester, along with Turner and Randall's three-month-old baby, after the murders. He surrendered after travelling to his father's home, local reports mentioned.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-man-sues-temple-in-us-over-branding-son-with-hot-iron-rod-708130">Indian-origin man sues temple in US over branding son with hot iron rod</a>

As per reports, he wants to be executed by lethal injection, not by nitrogen gas. Earlier this year, Alabama used nitrogen gas for the first time. It said that it will again use the same method in an execution later this year.&nbsp;

In the United States, a man who is a convicted killer on death row has said that he wants to be executed so the families of the people he killed in 2016 can have justice and get closure.

In the United States, a man who is a convicted killer on death row has said that he wants to be executed so the families of the people he killed in 2016 can have justice and get closure. The man, identified as Derrick Dearman, told NBC News that he has sent letters to Gov. Kay Ivey and other officials to inform them that he is dropping his appeals. In a phone interview from prison, the 36-year-old said, "Now it’s time for the victims and their families to get the justice they rightly deserve to start the closure." He also said that his decision doesn't mean that other inmates on death row should do the same. "There's guys in the general population that committed way worse crimes than half the guys on death row. There's some guys here on death row, if you would let them go today, they would never commit a crime and be productive members of society," he added. Also read: New York prison inmates, who sued department, will finally watch solar eclipse Dearman murdered five people at a home in Citronelle, Alabama, with a gun and an axe in August 2016. He was high on meth when he committed the crime. One of the victims, 22-year-old Chelsea Marie Reed, was five months pregnant, hence, the judges had convicted him on six counts of murder. Other victims were Shannon Melissa Randall (35), Robert Lee Brown (26), Justin Kaleb Reed (23), and Joseph Adam Turner (26). He had also kidnapped Lester, along with Turner and Randall's three-month-old baby, after the murders. He surrendered after travelling to his father's home, local reports mentioned. Also read: Indian-origin man sues temple in US over branding son with hot iron rod As per reports, he wants to be executed by lethal injection, not by nitrogen gas. Earlier this year, Alabama used nitrogen gas for the first time. It said that it will again use the same method in an execution later this year.

US man on death row wants to be executed so that families of victims have 'justice'

Authorities in Alabama have arrested a young Indian man for committing a Ponzi scam worth $400,000. Pathyam Patel of Gandhinagar, Gujarat, has been arrested for guaranteeing massive returns after starting to sell securities.

Authorities in Alabama have arrested a young Indian man for committing a Ponzi scam worth $400,000. Pathyam Patel of Gandhinagar, Gujarat, has been arrested for guaranteeing massive returns after starting to sell securities. However, he used the money only for personal expenses and never invested in securities. The Alabama Securities Commission (ASC) confirmed that they arrested Patel in Alabama on March 6. He violated at least nine counts of securities law violations, the Times of India newspaper reported. ASC stated, "The indictment alleges that Patel sold more than $4,00,000 in investment contracts to at least six investors. Patel represented that he was associated with Infinity Wealth Management, an investment advisory firm, which he claimed was registered with the US Securities and Exchange Commission." Patel promised investors to earn massive profits by investing their money, guaranteeing that there would be no loss of their principal amount. Patel also asked for additional payments to maintain their investments. ALSO READ | India firmly supports Philippines sovereignty: Jaishankar in wake of South China Sea incidents "Patel did not invest the funds as communicated to the investors. Instead, he used them for gambling on sporting events, personal expenses and paying other investors. Patel had no ability to guarantee that the investors would not lose their principal (amount)," ASC added. The authorities also revealed that while running the scam, Patel was not even registered with the ASC to sell securities in Alabama. Moreover, the investment contracts which Patel sold were not ASC-registered. He was neither a registered investment advisor nor a broker-dealer. Investor.gov describes the Ponzi scheme as "an investment fraud that pays existing investors with funds collected from new investors." In a Ponzi scheme, organisers often promise to invest your funds and generate high returns with little or no risk. However, they do not invest any money. They use it to pay those who invested earlier and keep some portion for their expense. (With inputs from agencies)

Alabama authorities arrest Indian man over Ponzi scheme fraud worth $400,000

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey on Wednesday (Mar&nbsp;20) signed into law a bill that effectively bans Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programmes across public schools, universities, and state agencies, in the latest move of Republican-led laws aimed at restricting diversity efforts across the United States.

<h2>What is Law SB129 and its focus on 'divisive concepts'?</h2>

The law, officially named SB129, imposes strict limitations on what it deems as eight "divisive concepts," including "fault, blame, or bias" to any race, religion, gender, or colour.&nbsp;

It also prohibits discussions questioning whether "slavery and racism are aligned with the founding principles of the United States."&nbsp;

The law also grants authority to state agencies to discipline or terminate employees or contractors who violate its provisions.

Furthermore, SB129 mandates higher education institutions to designate bathrooms based on "biological sex", effectively preventing transgender individuals from using public facilities aligning with their gender identity.

In a statement, Governor Ivey said her administration "will continue to value Alabama’s rich diversity", but added that she is duty-bound to stop “bad actors on college campuses … to push their liberal political movement counter to what the majority of Alabamians believe".

<h2>Critics call Law SB129 divisive</h2>

The bill faced strong opposition from Democrats, civil rights advocates, and student groups who argued that it constituted an infringement on free speech and diversity efforts.

Organisations like Pen America drew parallels between SB129 and Florida's Stop Woke Act.&nbsp;

They warned that the law could create a campus environment devoid of intellectual freedom.

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin has already said that he would advise Black athletes to consider attending institutions outside of Alabama.&nbsp;

"Why would you make it illegal for institutions of higher learning to promote diversity and inclusion among its faculty and staff? Why would you block fair representation and opportunities for all people?" he wrote in a Facebook post last month.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Alabama labelled SB129 as a measure intended to stifle discourse on race, class, sexuality, and national origin.&nbsp;

It argued that the law not only amounts to classroom censorship but also undermines education on systemic inequities and historic struggles for civil rights.

(With inputs from agencies)

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey on Wednesday (Mar 20) signed into law a bill that effectively bans Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programmes across public schools, universities, and state agencies, in the latest move of Republican-led laws aimed at restricting diversity efforts across the United States.

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey on Wednesday (Mar 20) signed into law a bill that effectively bans Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programmes across public schools, universities, and state agencies, in the latest move of Republican-led laws aimed at restricting diversity efforts across the United States. What is Law SB129 and its focus on 'divisive concepts'? The law, officially named SB129, imposes strict limitations on what it deems as eight "divisive concepts," including "fault, blame, or bias" to any race, religion, gender, or colour. It also prohibits discussions questioning whether "slavery and racism are aligned with the founding principles of the United States." The law also grants authority to state agencies to discipline or terminate employees or contractors who violate its provisions. Furthermore, SB129 mandates higher education institutions to designate bathrooms based on "biological sex", effectively preventing transgender individuals from using public facilities aligning with their gender identity. In a statement, Governor Ivey said her administration "will continue to value Alabama’s rich diversity", but added that she is duty-bound to stop “bad actors on college campuses … to push their liberal political movement counter to what the majority of Alabamians believe". Critics call Law SB129 divisive The bill faced strong opposition from Democrats, civil rights advocates, and student groups who argued that it constituted an infringement on free speech and diversity efforts. Organisations like Pen America drew parallels between SB129 and Florida's Stop Woke Act. They warned that the law could create a campus environment devoid of intellectual freedom. Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin has already said that he would advise Black athletes to consider attending institutions outside of Alabama. "Why would you make it illegal for institutions of higher learning to promote diversity and inclusion among its faculty and staff? Why would you block fair representation and opportunities for all people?" he wrote in a Facebook post last month. The American Civil Liberties Union of Alabama labelled SB129 as a measure intended to stifle discourse on race, class, sexuality, and national origin. It argued that the law not only amounts to classroom censorship but also undermines education on systemic inequities and historic struggles for civil rights. (With inputs from agencies)

Alabama law scraps inclusion efforts in schools; to designate bathrooms based on biological sex

Lawmakers in Alabama have passed legislation protecting In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) providers, just two weeks after a controversial ruling by the US state's top court that essentially said embryos are persons whose right to live should be protected.

Governor Kay Ivey immediately signed the bill into law following which some fertility clinics in the state resumed IVF treatments.

The development comes as a relief for families whose fertility treatments were suspended&nbsp;in Alabama&nbsp;after the Alabama state Supreme Court issued a decision that embryos are children. That ruling came&nbsp;in a case stemming from the accidental destruction of frozen embryos at a fertility clinic.

Also watch |&nbsp;Republicans and Trump try to contain backlash from Alabama fertility ruling

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The Republican-backed legislation aims to provide civil and criminal immunity to providers and patients for the destruction or damage to embryos.

The law will apply retroactively.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/embryos-are-babies-nikki-haley-agrees-with-alabama-supreme-court-ivf-ruling-692583">'Embryos are babies': Nikki Haley agrees with Alabama Supreme Court's IVF ruling</a>

The Alabama Supreme Court's verdict caused three of the state's largest IVF treatment providers to halt care due to fear of 'wrongful death' lawsuits when medically treating expecting mothers.&nbsp;

The bill that passed on Wednesday (Mar 6) was drafted&nbsp;to provide "civil and criminal immunity" to patients and clinics during IVF.

It therefore&nbsp;gives doctors, patients, and manufacturers legal cover to proceed with the treatments.

<h2>Personhood issue of embryo remains unaddressed: US media</h2>

However, reports in the US media say the new law does not address the issue of personhood at the heart of&nbsp;last month’s unprecedented ruling.

The fertility clinic at the center of that case continues to keep its services halted. The new legislation falls short of providing the legal protection the clinic needs to resume care, CNN reported.

The state court's ruling had spurred a pan-US debate over reproductive health freedom and IVF access.

Lawmakers in Alabama have passed legislation protecting In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) providers, just two weeks after a controversial ruling by the US state's top court that essentially said embryos are persons whose right to live should be protected.

Lawmakers in Alabama have passed legislation protecting In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) providers, just two weeks after a controversial ruling by the US state's top court that essentially said embryos are persons whose right to live should be protected. Governor Kay Ivey immediately signed the bill into law following which some fertility clinics in the state resumed IVF treatments. The development comes as a relief for families whose fertility treatments were suspended in Alabama after the Alabama state Supreme Court issued a decision that embryos are children. That ruling came in a case stemming from the accidental destruction of frozen embryos at a fertility clinic. Also watch | Republicans and Trump try to contain backlash from Alabama fertility ruling × The Republican-backed legislation aims to provide civil and criminal immunity to providers and patients for the destruction or damage to embryos. The law will apply retroactively. Also read | 'Embryos are babies': Nikki Haley agrees with Alabama Supreme Court's IVF ruling The Alabama Supreme Court's verdict caused three of the state's largest IVF treatment providers to halt care due to fear of 'wrongful death' lawsuits when medically treating expecting mothers. The bill that passed on Wednesday (Mar 6) was drafted to provide "civil and criminal immunity" to patients and clinics during IVF. It therefore gives doctors, patients, and manufacturers legal cover to proceed with the treatments. Personhood issue of embryo remains unaddressed: US media However, reports in the US media say the new law does not address the issue of personhood at the heart of last month’s unprecedented ruling. The fertility clinic at the center of that case continues to keep its services halted. The new legislation falls short of providing the legal protection the clinic needs to resume care, CNN reported. The state court's ruling had spurred a pan-US debate over reproductive health freedom and IVF access.

Alabama lawmakers approve IVF protection bill amid conservative backlash, 'embroys are babies' ruling

Republican front runner Donald Trump has shown Support over the availability of the Invitro fertilization on Friday. This came in the wake of a controversial Alabama Court ruling. Last week the court had said that Frozen embryos have the same rights as children and people can be held liable for destroying them. Following the court orders many clinics suspended the treatment. The move has deepened concerns among Republicans over abortions and Reproductive Services. watch to know more!

Republican front-runner Trump asks court to protect IVF procedure

A month after carrying out the cruel execution of a man&nbsp;by nitrogen gas for the first time, the US state of Alabama is now planning to do the same on another death row inmate.

The first execution carried out using the controversial method was widely condemned, including by the United Nations.&nbsp;

State Attorney General Steve Marshall’s office on Wednesday (Feb 21) asked Alabama Supreme Court to fix an execution date for Alan Eugene Miller.&nbsp;

The state said that the execution of Miller, 59, will be carried out using nitrogen gas. He has been convicted of killing three people in the 1999 workplace shootings carried out in suburban Birmingham.

“The State of Alabama is prepared to carry out the execution of Miller’s sentence by means of nitrogen hypoxia,” wrote the attorney general’s office, adding that Miller was given the death sentence in 2000 and now is the time to carry it out.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-alabama-faces-criticism-from-world-over-cruel-nitrogen-execution-683957">US: Alabama faces international criticism for 'cruel' nitrogen execution of inmate</a>

<h2>Alabama faces backlash for nitrogen gas execution&nbsp;</h2>

The request for the execution date has been made as the activists and advocates continue presenting opposing views over the state’s first execution using nitrogen.&nbsp;

On January 25, prison inmate Kenneth Smith convulsed in seizure-like movements for several minutes before dying in the death chamber filled with nitrogen gas. &nbsp;

Marshall said that the execution was “textbook” and added that more such death sentences were carried out by the state using nitrogen gas.

“As of last night, nitrogen hypoxia as a means of execution is no longer an untested method. It is a proven one,” said Marshall, the next day after Smith was executed.&nbsp;

Similar to Smith, Miller had also survived a lethal injection attempt. The state had tried to execute Miller using lethal injection in September 2022.

Watch:&nbsp;US: Alabama, third US state to authorise use of nitrogen for execution

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The execution was cancelled after the officials failed to find an intravenous line which was connected to the prisoner’s veins.

After that, an agreement was struck by the state with Miller’s lawyers in which it was agreed that they would never seek to execute Miller again using lethal injection and that nitrogen gas would be used to execute him in the future.

Miller, who was a delivery truck driver, was convicted for carrying out fatal shootings in which Lee Holdbrooks, Scott Yancy and Terry Jarvis were killed.

(With inputs from agencies)

A month after carrying out the cruel execution of a man by nitrogen gas for the first time, the US state of Alabama is now planning to do the same on another death row inmate.

A month after carrying out the cruel execution of a man by nitrogen gas for the first time, the US state of Alabama is now planning to do the same on another death row inmate. The first execution carried out using the controversial method was widely condemned, including by the United Nations. State Attorney General Steve Marshall’s office on Wednesday (Feb 21) asked Alabama Supreme Court to fix an execution date for Alan Eugene Miller. The state said that the execution of Miller, 59, will be carried out using nitrogen gas. He has been convicted of killing three people in the 1999 workplace shootings carried out in suburban Birmingham. “The State of Alabama is prepared to carry out the execution of Miller’s sentence by means of nitrogen hypoxia,” wrote the attorney general’s office, adding that Miller was given the death sentence in 2000 and now is the time to carry it out. Also Read: US: Alabama faces international criticism for 'cruel' nitrogen execution of inmate Alabama faces backlash for nitrogen gas execution The request for the execution date has been made as the activists and advocates continue presenting opposing views over the state’s first execution using nitrogen. On January 25, prison inmate Kenneth Smith convulsed in seizure-like movements for several minutes before dying in the death chamber filled with nitrogen gas. Marshall said that the execution was “textbook” and added that more such death sentences were carried out by the state using nitrogen gas. “As of last night, nitrogen hypoxia as a means of execution is no longer an untested method. It is a proven one,” said Marshall, the next day after Smith was executed. Similar to Smith, Miller had also survived a lethal injection attempt. The state had tried to execute Miller using lethal injection in September 2022. Watch: US: Alabama, third US state to authorise use of nitrogen for execution The execution was cancelled after the officials failed to find an intravenous line which was connected to the prisoner’s veins. After that, an agreement was struck by the state with Miller’s lawyers in which it was agreed that they would never seek to execute Miller again using lethal injection and that nitrogen gas would be used to execute him in the future. Miller, who was a delivery truck driver, was convicted for carrying out fatal shootings in which Lee Holdbrooks, Scott Yancy and Terry Jarvis were killed. (With inputs from agencies)

Chilling death sentence: Alabama plans second execution using nitrogen gas despite backlash over first

The Alabama Supreme Court ruled on Friday (February 16) that frozen embryos can be considered children under state law and are entitled to the same legal rights as other unborn children.

Are frozen embryos Children? Alabama Supreme Court gives first-of-its-kind decision

Republican presidential nomination seeker Nikki Haley has said she agrees with the Alabama Supreme Court's ruling that frozen embryos are 'children' and that someone can be held liable for destroying them.

Republican presidential nomination seeker Nikki Haley has said she agrees with the Alabama Supreme Court's ruling that frozen embryos are 'children' and that someone can be held liable for destroying them. Interestingly, the former US ambassador to UN also shared her personal experience, saying she had conceived through artificial insemination. “I mean, I think embryos, to me, are babies,” Haley said in an interview with NBC News. "I had artificial insemination. That’s how I had my son. So, when you look at it, one thing is to save sperm or to save eggs. But when you talk about an embryo, you are talking about, to me, that’s a life. So, I do see where that’s coming from when they talk about that,” she added. Part of the anti-abortion lobby, Haley, during her presidential campaign, has positioned herself as someone who has deep sympathies for both sides of the battle. Quizzed about what would be the potential ramifications of the judgment by the Alabama SC, Haley said: "This is one where we need to be incredibly respectful and sensitive about it." Later in the day, Haley clarified her remarks, reiterating that an embryo is "an unborn baby". "‘Do I believe an embryo is a baby?’ I do think that if you look in the definition an embryo is considered an unborn baby,” she told CNN. What did the Alabama SC say? The court was hearing cases brought by three couples who had their frozen embryos destroyed in an accident at a fertility clinic. Justice Jay Mitchell at the all-Republican court, citing anti-abortion language from the Alabama Constitution, ruled that an 1872 law allowed parents to sue over the death of a minor child which also applied to "unborn children". “Unborn children are ‘children" without exception based on developmental stage, physical location, or any other ancillary characteristics,” wrote Justice Mitchell in the verdict. Watch | Texas supreme court overUS: Pentagon's efforts to aid abortion in focus The immediate effect A day after the verdict, Alabama's largest hospital halted all the in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) procedures, with the administration saying it feared that they could be exposed to criminal prosecution. "We are saddened that this will impact our patients' attempt to have a baby through IVF," said the leading state medical provider, in a statement. "But we must evaluate the potential that our patients and our physicians could be prosecuted criminally or face punitive damages for following the standard of care for IVF treatments," it added. Also Read: US: Alabama Supreme Court rules frozen embryos are 'children' Previously, the freezing of embryos was considered property by the courts. However, the fresh verdict has increased fears that expectant people as well as the hospitals providing the treatment could be criminalised. (With inputs from agencies)

'Embryos are babies': Nikki Haley agrees with Alabama Supreme Court's IVF ruling

The largest hospital in Alabama, United States has placed a halt on vitro fertilisation procedures after the state’s supreme court delivered the first-of-its-kind decision in which it ruled that frozen embryos are “children”.

Alabama Supreme Court's ruling that frozen embryos should be considered children and that any person can be held liable for destroying them accidentally has now started a new debate in the United States.

The southern US state's hospital took the decision to pause its in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) services after the court's ruling as it feared that they could be exposed to criminal prosecution.

The health system of the University of Alabama at Birmingham said that they will continue retrieving eggs from the ovaries of women.&nbsp;

However, it said that the next step they take in the IVF process will be stopped. In the next step, they fertilise the eggs with sperm before they are implanted into the uterus.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-alabama-supreme-court-rules-frozen-embryos-are-children-692287">US: Alabama Supreme Court rules frozen embryos are 'children'</a>

"We are saddened that this will impact our patients' attempt to have a baby through IVF," said the leading state medical provider, in a statement.

"But we must evaluate the potential that our patients and our physicians could be prosecuted criminally or face punitive damages for following the standard of care for IVF treatments," it added.&nbsp;

<h2>What was the lawsuit and what was the decision made by the court?</h2>

The case has emerged from a wrongful death lawsuit which was filed by three couples after a fertility clinic lost their embryos in 2020.

A person had entered the place where the embryos were kept, handled them and dropped them accidentally. Because of that, the embryos were destroyed.

The couples also took steps to sue the Center for Reproductive Medicine and the Mobile Infirmary Association under the Wrongful Death of a Minor Act of the state. The law includes foetuses but does not specifically include embryos which are created from IVF.

Watch:&nbsp;Are frozen embryos Children? Alabama Supreme Court gives first-of-its-kind decision

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However, the Alabama Supreme Court in its ruling extended support to the couples and ruled that frozen embryos were considered "children".

The wrongful death law applied to "all unborn children, regardless of their location", the court said, in its decision.

Agreeing with the opinion of the majority, Chief Justice Tom Parker wrote: "Even before birth, all human beings have the image of God, and their lives cannot be destroyed without effacing his glory."

The ruling does not restrict or ban IVF and even the couples who filed the case actively sought out the procedure.

(With inputs from agencies)

The largest hospital in Alabama, United States has placed a halt on vitro fertilisation procedures after the state’s supreme court delivered the first-of-its-kind decision in which it ruled that frozen embryos are “children”.

The largest hospital in Alabama, United States has placed a halt on vitro fertilisation procedures after the state’s supreme court delivered the first-of-its-kind decision in which it ruled that frozen embryos are “children”. Alabama Supreme Court's ruling that frozen embryos should be considered children and that any person can be held liable for destroying them accidentally has now started a new debate in the United States. The southern US state's hospital took the decision to pause its in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) services after the court's ruling as it feared that they could be exposed to criminal prosecution. The health system of the University of Alabama at Birmingham said that they will continue retrieving eggs from the ovaries of women. However, it said that the next step they take in the IVF process will be stopped. In the next step, they fertilise the eggs with sperm before they are implanted into the uterus. Also Read: US: Alabama Supreme Court rules frozen embryos are 'children' "We are saddened that this will impact our patients' attempt to have a baby through IVF," said the leading state medical provider, in a statement. "But we must evaluate the potential that our patients and our physicians could be prosecuted criminally or face punitive damages for following the standard of care for IVF treatments," it added. What was the lawsuit and what was the decision made by the court? The case has emerged from a wrongful death lawsuit which was filed by three couples after a fertility clinic lost their embryos in 2020. A person had entered the place where the embryos were kept, handled them and dropped them accidentally. Because of that, the embryos were destroyed. The couples also took steps to sue the Center for Reproductive Medicine and the Mobile Infirmary Association under the Wrongful Death of a Minor Act of the state. The law includes foetuses but does not specifically include embryos which are created from IVF. Watch: Are frozen embryos Children? Alabama Supreme Court gives first-of-its-kind decision However, the Alabama Supreme Court in its ruling extended support to the couples and ruled that frozen embryos were considered "children". The wrongful death law applied to "all unborn children, regardless of their location", the court said, in its decision. Agreeing with the opinion of the majority, Chief Justice Tom Parker wrote: "Even before birth, all human beings have the image of God, and their lives cannot be destroyed without effacing his glory." The ruling does not restrict or ban IVF and even the couples who filed the case actively sought out the procedure. (With inputs from agencies)

Alabama's largest hospital pauses IVF after SC says frozen embryos are children

The Alabama Supreme Court&nbsp;has ruled that frozen embryos are 'children' and that someone can be held liable for destroying them, in what is being described as a&nbsp;first-of-its-kind decision in the US. The court was hearing cases brought by three couples who had their frozen embryos destroyed in an accident at a fertility clinic.&nbsp;

Justice Jay Mitchell at the all-Republican court, citing&nbsp;anti-abortion language from the Alabama Constitution, ruled that an 1872 law allowed parents to sue over the death of a minor child which also applied to "unborn children".&nbsp;

“Unborn children are ‘children" without exception based on developmental stage, physical location, or any other ancillary characteristics,” wrote Justice&nbsp;Mitchell in the verdict.&nbsp;

"The Wrongful Death of a Minor Act applies to all unborn children, regardless of their location," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the case about?</h2>

According to court documents, the plaintiffs in case had undergone IVF treatments that led to the creation of several embryos, some of which were implanted and resulted in healthy births.

The couples had then decided to keep other embryos frozen in a storage facility at the Mobile Infirmary Medical Center. However, in 2020, a patient wandered into the area where the embryos were stored and attempted to remove them. In the process, he dropped them on the floor and "killed" them, according to the ruling.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-pentagons-efforts-to-aid-abortion-in-focus-625802">Watch |&nbsp;Texas supreme court overUS: Pentagon's efforts to aid abortion in focus</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>Implications of the verdict&nbsp;</h2>

The decision by the Alabama SC could have serious implications for people seeking&nbsp;in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) or other assisted reproductive technology treatments.

Previously, the freezing of embryos was considered property by the courts.&nbsp;However, the fresh verdict could increase the criminalisation of expectant people.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kate-cox-a-texas-woman-forced-to-leave-state-for-emergency-abortion-668704">Also read |&nbsp;Texas supreme court overturns ruling on pregnant woman seeking abortion after she leaves state</a>

The court decision&nbsp;comes ahead of the 2024 presidential elections and could further divide the two sides on the sensitive topic. While the Republican side believes that personhood begins at fertilisation, the Democrats, who are in the pro-choice bloc, believe that a fertilised egg is nothing but a clump of cells.&nbsp;

Up until now, at least 11 states have broadly defines personhood as beginning at the fertilisation process.

More states, especially the conservative strongholds, are also expected to further clearly define personhood, buoyed by the decision of Alabama SC, experts argue.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Alabama Supreme Court has ruled that frozen embryos are 'children' and that someone can be held liable for destroying them, in what is being described as a first-of-its-kind decision in the US.

The Alabama Supreme Court has ruled that frozen embryos are 'children' and that someone can be held liable for destroying them, in what is being described as a first-of-its-kind decision in the US. The court was hearing cases brought by three couples who had their frozen embryos destroyed in an accident at a fertility clinic. Justice Jay Mitchell at the all-Republican court, citing anti-abortion language from the Alabama Constitution, ruled that an 1872 law allowed parents to sue over the death of a minor child which also applied to "unborn children". “Unborn children are ‘children" without exception based on developmental stage, physical location, or any other ancillary characteristics,” wrote Justice Mitchell in the verdict. "The Wrongful Death of a Minor Act applies to all unborn children, regardless of their location," he added. What is the case about? According to court documents, the plaintiffs in case had undergone IVF treatments that led to the creation of several embryos, some of which were implanted and resulted in healthy births. The couples had then decided to keep other embryos frozen in a storage facility at the Mobile Infirmary Medical Center. However, in 2020, a patient wandered into the area where the embryos were stored and attempted to remove them. In the process, he dropped them on the floor and "killed" them, according to the ruling. Watch | Texas supreme court overUS: Pentagon's efforts to aid abortion in focus × Implications of the verdict The decision by the Alabama SC could have serious implications for people seeking in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) or other assisted reproductive technology treatments. Previously, the freezing of embryos was considered property by the courts. However, the fresh verdict could increase the criminalisation of expectant people. Also read | Texas supreme court overturns ruling on pregnant woman seeking abortion after she leaves state The court decision comes ahead of the 2024 presidential elections and could further divide the two sides on the sensitive topic. While the Republican side believes that personhood begins at fertilisation, the Democrats, who are in the pro-choice bloc, believe that a fertilised egg is nothing but a clump of cells. Up until now, at least 11 states have broadly defines personhood as beginning at the fertilisation process. More states, especially the conservative strongholds, are also expected to further clearly define personhood, buoyed by the decision of Alabama SC, experts argue. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Alabama Supreme Court rules frozen embryos are 'children'

A radio station had to go off air in US after thieves reportedly stole their 200ft transmission tower last week. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ordered the WJLX station, based out of Alabama, to shut down their radio channel after thieves took the station’s AM tower.

“In all my years of being in the business, around the business, everything like that, I have never seen anything like this,” WJLX’s general manager, Brett Elmore, was quoted as saying by the Guardian. “You don’t hear of a 200ft tower being stolen,” he added.

Elmore said he was first informed about the alleged theft by a landscaping crew that regularly manages the area nearby the tower. “They called me and said the tower was gone. And I said, ‘What do you mean, the tower is gone?’” Elmore said.

As per Elmore, police were also left stunned as he reported the theft of the 200ft tower. “They were just as stunned as I was. It’s unbelievable,” he said.

Watch:&nbsp;Bird flu detected in Antarctica | Scientists create 'identical twin' universe

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Elmore said the property was not insured and the company would need “$100,000 to $150,000” to replace the stolen tower, which he said was “more money than we have”.

The station still has its FM transmitter and tower intact but they are not allowed to operate while AM station is off the air. Notably, AM radio is broadcast between 540 and 1600 kilohertz, while FM radio is broadcast between 88.1 and 108.1 megahertz.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw2W_Q3EQhYWSdPviYH7IOjF" data-ved="2ahUKEwic2sv2rp6EAxV8S2wGHdBKCIUQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/two-dogs-that-fatally-attacked-uk-grandmother-identified-as-xl-bullies-688692" jsname="YKoRaf">Two dogs that fatally attacked UK grandmother identified as XL bullies</a>

“This is a huge loss,” Elmore said. “People have reached out and asked how they can help, but I don’t know how you can help unless you have a 200ft tower and an AM transmitter.”

Since the theft took place, people in the area have come up with different theories as to what happened to the tower.

“I had a guy from Virginia call yesterday and say, ‘You know, I think a helicopter grabbed [the tower],’” Elmore said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A radio station had to go off air in US after thieves reportedly stole their 200ft transmission tower last week. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ordered the WJLX station, based out of Alabama, to shut down their radio channel after thieves took the station’s AM tower.

A radio station had to go off air in US after thieves reportedly stole their 200ft transmission tower last week. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ordered the WJLX station, based out of Alabama, to shut down their radio channel after thieves took the station’s AM tower. “In all my years of being in the business, around the business, everything like that, I have never seen anything like this,” WJLX’s general manager, Brett Elmore, was quoted as saying by the Guardian. “You don’t hear of a 200ft tower being stolen,” he added. Elmore said he was first informed about the alleged theft by a landscaping crew that regularly manages the area nearby the tower. “They called me and said the tower was gone. And I said, ‘What do you mean, the tower is gone?’” Elmore said. As per Elmore, police were also left stunned as he reported the theft of the 200ft tower. “They were just as stunned as I was. It’s unbelievable,” he said. Watch: Bird flu detected in Antarctica | Scientists create 'identical twin' universe × Elmore said the property was not insured and the company would need “$100,000 to $150,000” to replace the stolen tower, which he said was “more money than we have”. The station still has its FM transmitter and tower intact but they are not allowed to operate while AM station is off the air. Notably, AM radio is broadcast between 540 and 1600 kilohertz, while FM radio is broadcast between 88.1 and 108.1 megahertz. Also read: Two dogs that fatally attacked UK grandmother identified as XL bullies “This is a huge loss,” Elmore said. “People have reached out and asked how they can help, but I don’t know how you can help unless you have a 200ft tower and an AM transmitter.” Since the theft took place, people in the area have come up with different theories as to what happened to the tower. “I had a guy from Virginia call yesterday and say, ‘You know, I think a helicopter grabbed [the tower],’” Elmore said. (With inputs from agencies)

Radio station forced to go off air in US after thieves steal 200ft transmission tower

The convicted murderer Kenneth Eugene Smith became the first man in the United States to be executed using nitrogen gas. The execution, which took place at Alabama's Holman Prison, deviated from the traditional lethal injection method and sparked condemnation from human rights activists, and the United Nations.

Now it has emerged that dozens of death row prisoners in Alabama may soon face the nitrogen gas route for their execution.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-alabama-makes-history-with-first-execution-using-nitrogen-gas-683713">Alabama death row inmate Kenneth Smith executed with nitrogen gas, in a first for US</a>

The 58-year-old Smith, who spent over three decades on death row for the 1988 murder-for-hire of a pastor's wife, faced a 22-minute execution that drew criticism for its apparent brutality.&nbsp;

Witnesses, including his spiritual adviser Reverend Jeff Hood, described the scene as a 'horror show'.&nbsp;Hood said that even prison staff couldn't conceal their shock at the distressing display, with audible gasps from onlookers as Smith struggled to breathe.

<h2>Nitrogen gas execution: Dozens of&nbsp;death row prisoners may follow the route</h2>

According to Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, what happened with Kenneth Eugene Smith "was textbook" form of execution when done with Nitrogen gas.

“As of last night, nitrogen hypoxia as a means of execution is no longer an untested method. It is a proven one. It’s the method that Kenneth Smith ultimately chose, along with 43 other death row inmates in our state,” Marshall was quoted as saying by CNN.

"I now suspect many states will follow."

The attorney general in a purported message to other US states, said: "Alabama has done it, and now so can you," Marshall said. "And we stand ready to assist you in implementing this method in your states."

<h2>US nitrogen gas execution: What happened?</h2>

Reverend Hood recounted the prison authorities' assurances that the nitrogen hypoxia execution would be nearly instantaneous, quick, easy, and painless.&nbsp;

But&nbsp;the reality unfolded quite differently. "What we saw last night was minutes, minutes, and minutes of a horror show," Hood was quoted as saying by the New York Post.

Also watch |&nbsp;US: Alabama, third US state to authorise use of nitrogen for execution

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Smith's contorted movements during the execution were likened to a "fish out of water, flapping over and over again," creating a lasting impact on those who witnessed the event.

The White House expressed deep concern over the execution, stating it was "deeply troubled" by the unfolding events.&nbsp;

UN human rights chief Volker Turk, the European Union, and various civil liberties groups also raised alarms about the method employed in Smith's execution, referring to it as an "untested human experiment."

The nitrogen hypoxia execution marks a significant departure from the conventional lethal injection method, forcing the prisoner to breathe nitrogen instead of oxygen through a respirator mask.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the bottomline?</h2>

The international community's condemnation suggests that the execution method will likely face further scrutiny, reigniting the ongoing debate surrounding the ethics of capital punishment in the United States.

(With inputs from agencies)

The convicted murderer Kenneth Eugene Smith became the first man in the United States to be executed using nitrogen gas. The execution, which took place at Alabama's Holman Prison, deviated from the traditional lethal injection method and sparked condemnation from human rights activists, and the United Nations.

The convicted murderer Kenneth Eugene Smith became the first man in the United States to be executed using nitrogen gas. The execution, which took place at Alabama's Holman Prison, deviated from the traditional lethal injection method and sparked condemnation from human rights activists, and the United Nations. Now it has emerged that dozens of death row prisoners in Alabama may soon face the nitrogen gas route for their execution. Also read | Alabama death row inmate Kenneth Smith executed with nitrogen gas, in a first for US The 58-year-old Smith, who spent over three decades on death row for the 1988 murder-for-hire of a pastor's wife, faced a 22-minute execution that drew criticism for its apparent brutality. Witnesses, including his spiritual adviser Reverend Jeff Hood, described the scene as a 'horror show'. Hood said that even prison staff couldn't conceal their shock at the distressing display, with audible gasps from onlookers as Smith struggled to breathe. Nitrogen gas execution: Dozens of death row prisoners may follow the route According to Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, what happened with Kenneth Eugene Smith "was textbook" form of execution when done with Nitrogen gas. “As of last night, nitrogen hypoxia as a means of execution is no longer an untested method. It is a proven one. It’s the method that Kenneth Smith ultimately chose, along with 43 other death row inmates in our state,” Marshall was quoted as saying by CNN. "I now suspect many states will follow." The attorney general in a purported message to other US states, said: "Alabama has done it, and now so can you," Marshall said. "And we stand ready to assist you in implementing this method in your states." US nitrogen gas execution: What happened? Reverend Hood recounted the prison authorities' assurances that the nitrogen hypoxia execution would be nearly instantaneous, quick, easy, and painless. But the reality unfolded quite differently. "What we saw last night was minutes, minutes, and minutes of a horror show," Hood was quoted as saying by the New York Post. Also watch | US: Alabama, third US state to authorise use of nitrogen for execution × Smith's contorted movements during the execution were likened to a "fish out of water, flapping over and over again," creating a lasting impact on those who witnessed the event. The White House expressed deep concern over the execution, stating it was "deeply troubled" by the unfolding events. UN human rights chief Volker Turk, the European Union, and various civil liberties groups also raised alarms about the method employed in Smith's execution, referring to it as an "untested human experiment." The nitrogen hypoxia execution marks a significant departure from the conventional lethal injection method, forcing the prisoner to breathe nitrogen instead of oxygen through a respirator mask. What is the bottomline? The international community's condemnation suggests that the execution method will likely face further scrutiny, reigniting the ongoing debate surrounding the ethics of capital punishment in the United States. (With inputs from agencies)

Alabama Nitrogen Gas execution: More states to follow lethal route for death sentence

The first-ever execution carried out by the US state of Alabama, using nitrogen gas, on Thursday (Jan 25) received widespread criticism from the international community for&nbsp;being 'cruel'. They also&nbsp;held&nbsp;the controversial method adopted by the United States&nbsp;of being close to "torture." 
 
The court had given a death sentence to Kenneth Eugene Smith in 1996 for a 1988 murder and he was pronounced dead at 8:25 pm (0225 GMT Friday), as per local media, which cited southern state Governor Kay Ivey's statement. 
 
UN human rights chief Volker Turk on Friday (Jan 26) said that the convicted murderer's execution by nitrogen gas suffocation in the United States can amount to torture.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-alabama-makes-history-with-first-execution-using-nitrogen-gas-683713">Alabama death row inmate Kenneth Smith executed with nitrogen gas, in a first for US</a>

"I deeply regret the execution of Kenneth Eugene Smith in Alabama despite serious concerns this novel and untested method of suffocation by nitrogen gas may amount to torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment," said Turk, in a brief statement. 
 
"The death penalty is inconsistent with the fundamental right to life. I urge all states to put in place a moratorium on its use, as a step towards universal abolition,” he added.

<h2 lang="en-US">'Cruel and unusual punishment': EU</h2>

The European Union, on Friday (Jan 26), reacting to the convicted murderer's execution using nitrogen gas in the US state of Alabama, said that it "deeply regrets" the incident. 
 
"According to leading experts, this method is a particularly cruel and unusual punishment," a&nbsp;European Union spokesman said in a statement. 
 
The 27-nation bloc has stood strongly in opposition to the death penalty and criticised executions, which are carried out in different countries, on a regular basis.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Alabama to carry out first Nitrogen gas execution

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Smith had&nbsp;survived an execution attempt&nbsp;in November 2022 after officials in Alabama failed to insert an intravenous line's needle in his body, and aborted the&nbsp;execution. 
 
Meanwhile, a peace group – which is closely associated with the Vatican – had earlier said that it would appeal to the European tourists and businesses to boycott Alabama if execution is carried out. 
 
Sant' Egidio Community's Mario Marazziti, in a press conference, had said, "This is a proposal that we will make if the execution of Kenneth Smith goes ahead.” 
 
"There is a moment in which you have to choose. Even for South Africa, it seemed that to boycott could not be effective but it became decisive to end the apartheid regime. I think we must try something that has not been tried so far," Marazziti said while speaking to Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The first-ever execution carried out by the US state of Alabama, using nitrogen gas, on Thursday (Jan 25) received widespread criticism from the international community for being 'cruel'.

The first-ever execution carried out by the US state of Alabama, using nitrogen gas, on Thursday (Jan 25) received widespread criticism from the international community for being 'cruel'. They also held the controversial method adopted by the United States of being close to "torture." The court had given a death sentence to Kenneth Eugene Smith in 1996 for a 1988 murder and he was pronounced dead at 8:25 pm (0225 GMT Friday), as per local media, which cited southern state Governor Kay Ivey's statement. UN human rights chief Volker Turk on Friday (Jan 26) said that the convicted murderer's execution by nitrogen gas suffocation in the United States can amount to torture. Also read: Alabama death row inmate Kenneth Smith executed with nitrogen gas, in a first for US "I deeply regret the execution of Kenneth Eugene Smith in Alabama despite serious concerns this novel and untested method of suffocation by nitrogen gas may amount to torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment," said Turk, in a brief statement. "The death penalty is inconsistent with the fundamental right to life. I urge all states to put in place a moratorium on its use, as a step towards universal abolition,” he added. 'Cruel and unusual punishment': EU The European Union, on Friday (Jan 26), reacting to the convicted murderer's execution using nitrogen gas in the US state of Alabama, said that it "deeply regrets" the incident. "According to leading experts, this method is a particularly cruel and unusual punishment," a European Union spokesman said in a statement. The 27-nation bloc has stood strongly in opposition to the death penalty and criticised executions, which are carried out in different countries, on a regular basis. Watch: Gravitas: Alabama to carry out first Nitrogen gas execution Smith had survived an execution attempt in November 2022 after officials in Alabama failed to insert an intravenous line's needle in his body, and aborted the execution. Meanwhile, a peace group – which is closely associated with the Vatican – had earlier said that it would appeal to the European tourists and businesses to boycott Alabama if execution is carried out. Sant' Egidio Community's Mario Marazziti, in a press conference, had said, "This is a proposal that we will make if the execution of Kenneth Smith goes ahead.” "There is a moment in which you have to choose. Even for South Africa, it seemed that to boycott could not be effective but it became decisive to end the apartheid regime. I think we must try something that has not been tried so far," Marazziti said while speaking to Reuters. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Alabama faces international criticism for 'cruel' nitrogen execution of inmate

Alabama performed its first execution in the United States using nitrogen gas on Friday (Jan 26).&nbsp;Kenneth Smith, found guilty in a 1988 murder-for-hire case, was&nbsp;an unusual inmate who endured an unsuccessful execution in November 2022. Alabama authorities halted his lethal injection as they grappled for hours to properly insert the intravenous needle.

Alabama has described its recent procedure as "the least painful and most humane form of execution known to humanity".

<h2>What's the procedure?</h2>

Officials said&nbsp;that Kenneth Smith would&nbsp;lose consciousness within one to two minutes and pass away shortly thereafter.

While lethal gases like hydrogen cyanide have been employed in executions before, this marks the first instance of using an inert gas to induce suffocation in a death sentence, according to experts in capital punishment.

Critics of the death penalty, including human rights experts from the United Nations, argue that this method amounts to human experimentation and may result in injuring rather than killing the individual or lead to a torturous death.

Also watch |&nbsp;Alabama to perform first nitrogen gas execution over Kenneth Smith

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Reverend Jeff Hood, Smith's spiritual advisor, expressed sorrow, highlighting the particularly horrific aspect of conducting a human experiment with legal suffocation. Hood, who was&nbsp;present during the execution, had to sign a waiver acknowledging the "unlikely" danger of succumbing to nitrogen asphyxiation.&nbsp;

States in the US&nbsp;employing the death penalty face increasing challenges in procuring lethal injection drugs due to pharmaceutical companies prohibiting their supply, adhering to a European ban on goods used in torture or executions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2024-very-sharp-donald-trump-shed-weight-the-hard-way-683154">Also read |&nbsp;US elections 2024: 'Very sharp' Donald Trump shed weight 'the hard way'</a>

Oklahoma and Mississippi lawmakers have endorsed nitrogen-asphyxiation execution protocols, mirroring Alabama's, but have yet to implement them.

Kenneth Smith, convicted of murdering a preacher's wife, Elizabeth Sennett, received a life sentence recommendation from 11 out of 12 jurors.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Alabama performed its first execution in the United States using nitrogen gas on Friday (Jan 26). Kenneth Smith, found guilty in a 1988 murder-for-hire case, was an unusual inmate who endured an unsuccessful execution in November 2022.

Alabama performed its first execution in the United States using nitrogen gas on Friday (Jan 26). Kenneth Smith, found guilty in a 1988 murder-for-hire case, was an unusual inmate who endured an unsuccessful execution in November 2022. Alabama authorities halted his lethal injection as they grappled for hours to properly insert the intravenous needle. Alabama has described its recent procedure as "the least painful and most humane form of execution known to humanity". What's the procedure? Officials said that Kenneth Smith would lose consciousness within one to two minutes and pass away shortly thereafter. While lethal gases like hydrogen cyanide have been employed in executions before, this marks the first instance of using an inert gas to induce suffocation in a death sentence, according to experts in capital punishment. Critics of the death penalty, including human rights experts from the United Nations, argue that this method amounts to human experimentation and may result in injuring rather than killing the individual or lead to a torturous death. Also watch | Alabama to perform first nitrogen gas execution over Kenneth Smith Reverend Jeff Hood, Smith's spiritual advisor, expressed sorrow, highlighting the particularly horrific aspect of conducting a human experiment with legal suffocation. Hood, who was present during the execution, had to sign a waiver acknowledging the "unlikely" danger of succumbing to nitrogen asphyxiation. States in the US employing the death penalty face increasing challenges in procuring lethal injection drugs due to pharmaceutical companies prohibiting their supply, adhering to a European ban on goods used in torture or executions. Also read | US elections 2024: 'Very sharp' Donald Trump shed weight 'the hard way' Oklahoma and Mississippi lawmakers have endorsed nitrogen-asphyxiation execution protocols, mirroring Alabama's, but have yet to implement them. Kenneth Smith, convicted of murdering a preacher's wife, Elizabeth Sennett, received a life sentence recommendation from 11 out of 12 jurors. (With inputs from agencies)

Alabama death row inmate Kenneth Smith executed with nitrogen gas, in a first for US

An Alabama man is set to be the first ever person executed via a new method, nitrogen gas, on Thursday. Kenneth Eugene Smith, 58, was sentenced to death for his alleged role in the 1988 murder of Elizabeth Sennett. WION tells you more about the execution process in this report.

Alabama to perform first nitrogen gas execution over Kenneth Smith

Contract murderer and native of Alabama Kenneth Smith is set to die via nitrogen hypoxia on Thursday, the first execution of its sort, after spending more than 20 years on death row. It is an approach that the United Nations has lately criticized and that Smith's lawyers describe as "experimental".

Everything you need to know about Elizabeth Sennett murder case

The US Supreme Court on Wednesday (Jan 24) declined to halt&nbsp;the execution of convicted criminal&nbsp;Kenneth Eugene Smith, paving the way for the state of Alabama to use nitrogen gas to carry out the death penalty for the first time in the country.&nbsp;

Smith, currently holed up at the&nbsp;Holman Correctional Facility, survived the state's attempt to put him to death by lethal injection&nbsp;nearly 14 months ago. However, the apex court denied Smith's request to stay the second execution attempt, scheduled for Thursday (Jan 25).&nbsp;

Apart from refusing to halt the proceedings, the court also declined to hear his legal challenge contending that the second execution attempt&nbsp;violated the US Constitution's Eighth Amendment protections against cruel and unusual punishment.&nbsp;

Last week, in an interview, Smith claimed he had severe trauma due to the botched execution attempt.&nbsp;

“I dream that they’re coming to get me. They haven’t given me a chance to heal. I’m still suffering from the first execution and now we’re doing this again. They won’t let me even have post-traumatic stress disorder – you know, this is ongoing stress disorder,” Smith told The Guardian.

“I am not ready for that [execution]. Not in no kind of way. I’m just not ready, brother,” he added.&nbsp;

Smith's attorneys&nbsp;have argued that in 2020, the American Veterinary Medical Association in its euthanasia guidelines cleared nitrogen hypoxia only for pigs. For other mammals, it said, nitrogen hypoxia could create an "anoxic environment that is distressing for some species".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-botched-35-of-execution-attempts-this-year-543848">Watch | Gravitas: US botched 35% of execution attempts this year</a>

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<h2>How will Smith be executed?</h2>

Smith will be taken to an execution chamber on Thursday where he will be strapped to the gurney. According to court documents, the state will place a mask on him to deliver nitrogen.&nbsp;

The "Type-C full facepiece respirator-type face mask" will cut off Smith's oxygen supply and replace it with nitrogen. This will cause him to die due to lack of oxygen. Notably, the gas will be delivered for at least 15 minutes or "five minutes following a flatline indication on the Electrocardiogram (EKG)".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/federal-judge-gives-green-light-to-us-first-execution-by-nitrogen-gas-hypoxia-678799">Also read |&nbsp;Federal judge gives green light to first US execution by nitrogen gas&nbsp;</a>

<h2>Who is Kenneth Smith?&nbsp;</h2>

Smith, 58,&nbsp;is a murderer-for-hire who was&nbsp;sentenced to death for the 1988 killing of a preacher's wife. In 1996, he was convicted of capital murder with the jury recommending he be given life in prison without the possibility of parole.&nbsp;

Later, the judge overrode the jury's recommendation and sentenced him to death by electrocution.&nbsp;Smith's accomplice in the murder was also convicted and sentenced to death,&nbsp;with the execution carried out in 2010.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US Supreme Court on Wednesday (Jan 24) declined to halt the execution of convicted criminal Kenneth Eugene Smith, paving the way for the state of Alabama to use nitrogen gas to carry out the death penalty for the first time in the country.

The US Supreme Court on Wednesday (Jan 24) declined to halt the execution of convicted criminal Kenneth Eugene Smith, paving the way for the state of Alabama to use nitrogen gas to carry out the death penalty for the first time in the country. Smith, currently holed up at the Holman Correctional Facility, survived the state's attempt to put him to death by lethal injection nearly 14 months ago. However, the apex court denied Smith's request to stay the second execution attempt, scheduled for Thursday (Jan 25). Apart from refusing to halt the proceedings, the court also declined to hear his legal challenge contending that the second execution attempt violated the US Constitution's Eighth Amendment protections against cruel and unusual punishment. Last week, in an interview, Smith claimed he had severe trauma due to the botched execution attempt. “I dream that they’re coming to get me. They haven’t given me a chance to heal. I’m still suffering from the first execution and now we’re doing this again. They won’t let me even have post-traumatic stress disorder – you know, this is ongoing stress disorder,” Smith told The Guardian. “I am not ready for that [execution]. Not in no kind of way. I’m just not ready, brother,” he added. Smith's attorneys have argued that in 2020, the American Veterinary Medical Association in its euthanasia guidelines cleared nitrogen hypoxia only for pigs. For other mammals, it said, nitrogen hypoxia could create an "anoxic environment that is distressing for some species". Watch | Gravitas: US botched 35% of execution attempts this year How will Smith be executed? Smith will be taken to an execution chamber on Thursday where he will be strapped to the gurney. According to court documents, the state will place a mask on him to deliver nitrogen. The "Type-C full facepiece respirator-type face mask" will cut off Smith's oxygen supply and replace it with nitrogen. This will cause him to die due to lack of oxygen. Notably, the gas will be delivered for at least 15 minutes or "five minutes following a flatline indication on the Electrocardiogram (EKG)". Also read | Federal judge gives green light to first US execution by nitrogen gas Who is Kenneth Smith? Smith, 58, is a murderer-for-hire who was sentenced to death for the 1988 killing of a preacher's wife. In 1996, he was convicted of capital murder with the jury recommending he be given life in prison without the possibility of parole. Later, the judge overrode the jury's recommendation and sentenced him to death by electrocution. Smith's accomplice in the murder was also convicted and sentenced to death, with the execution carried out in 2010. (With inputs from agencies)

US Supreme Court refuses to halt first-ever nitrogen gas execution of Alabama inmate

Alabama plans to carry out the first nitrogen gas execution. The process known as nitrogen hypoxia will be used to execute 58-yr-old Kenneth Eugene Smith who has been convicted for a 1988 murder. Priyanka Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Alabama to carry out first Nitrogen gas execution

Alabama plans to carry out the first nitrogen gas execution. The process known as nitrogen hypoxia will be used to execute 58-yr-old Kenneth Eugene Smith who has been convicted for a 1988 murder. Priyanka Sharma brings you a report. Watch to know more!

US: Alabama, third US state to authorise use of nitrogen for execution

Nearly 14 months after surviving state's attempt to put him to death by lethal injection, inmate Kenneth Eugene Smith at the&nbsp;Holman Correctional Facility in Alabama will be subjected to another execution attempt. The prison authorities will be putting Smith to death on Thursday (Jan 25) by nitrogen hypoxia.&nbsp;

Ahead of the fateful event,&nbsp;Smith remains terrified, saying he has nightmares thinking about his death.&nbsp;

“I am not ready for that. Not in no kind of way. I’m just not ready, brother,” Smith told The Guardian.&nbsp;

“All I had to do was walk into the room in the dream for it to be overwhelming. I was absolutely terrified. It kept coming up," added Smith, referring to the first execution attempt.&nbsp;

As the second round approaches, Smith says he is "sick in his stomach" and finds himself vomiting most days.&nbsp;

“I dream that they’re coming to get me. They haven’t given me a chance to heal. I’m still suffering from the first execution and now we’re doing this again. They won’t let me even have post-traumatic stress disorder – you know, this is ongoing stress disorder,” he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-botched-35-of-execution-attempts-this-year-543848">Watch | Gravitas: US botched 35% of execution attempts this year</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>How will Smith be executed?</h2>

Smith will be taken to an execution chamber on Thursday where he will be strapped to the gurney. According to court documents, the state will place a mask on him to deliver nitrogen.&nbsp;

The "Type-C full facepiece respirator-type face mask" will cut off Smith's oxygen supply and replace it with nitrogen. This will cause him to die due to lack of oxygen. Notably, the gas will be delivered for at least 15 minutes or "five minutes following a flatline indication on the Electrocardiogram (EKG)".&nbsp;

<h2>Who is Kenneth Smith?&nbsp;</h2>

Smith, 58,&nbsp;is a murderer-for-hire who was&nbsp;sentenced to death for the 1988 killing of a preacher's wife.&nbsp;

Smith found himself facing nitrogen hypoxia after Alabama botched his initial execution attempt in November 2022. The lethal injection failed due to multiple futile attempts to establish an intravenous line, leaving him as one of only two individuals in the US to survive an execution attempt.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/international-outcry-as-us-plans-to-use-cruel-nitrogen-asphyxiation-to-execute-death-row-inmate-676458">International outcry over US plans to use 'inhuman' nitrogen asphyxiation to execute death row inmate</a>

Smith's attorneys&nbsp;have argued that in 2020, the American Veterinary Medical Association in its euthanasia guidelines cleared nitrogen hypoxia only for pigs. For other mammals, it said, nitrogen hypoxia could create an "anoxic environment that is distressing for some species."

(With inputs from agencies)

Nearly 14 months after surviving state's attempt to put him to death by lethal injection, inmate Kenneth Eugene Smith at the Holman Correctional Facility in Alabama will be subjected to another execution attempt.

Nearly 14 months after surviving state's attempt to put him to death by lethal injection, inmate Kenneth Eugene Smith at the Holman Correctional Facility in Alabama will be subjected to another execution attempt. The prison authorities will be putting Smith to death on Thursday (Jan 25) by nitrogen hypoxia. Ahead of the fateful event, Smith remains terrified, saying he has nightmares thinking about his death. “I am not ready for that. Not in no kind of way. I’m just not ready, brother,” Smith told The Guardian. “All I had to do was walk into the room in the dream for it to be overwhelming. I was absolutely terrified. It kept coming up," added Smith, referring to the first execution attempt. As the second round approaches, Smith says he is "sick in his stomach" and finds himself vomiting most days. “I dream that they’re coming to get me. They haven’t given me a chance to heal. I’m still suffering from the first execution and now we’re doing this again. They won’t let me even have post-traumatic stress disorder – you know, this is ongoing stress disorder,” he added. Watch | Gravitas: US botched 35% of execution attempts this year × How will Smith be executed? Smith will be taken to an execution chamber on Thursday where he will be strapped to the gurney. According to court documents, the state will place a mask on him to deliver nitrogen. The "Type-C full facepiece respirator-type face mask" will cut off Smith's oxygen supply and replace it with nitrogen. This will cause him to die due to lack of oxygen. Notably, the gas will be delivered for at least 15 minutes or "five minutes following a flatline indication on the Electrocardiogram (EKG)". Who is Kenneth Smith? Smith, 58, is a murderer-for-hire who was sentenced to death for the 1988 killing of a preacher's wife. Smith found himself facing nitrogen hypoxia after Alabama botched his initial execution attempt in November 2022. The lethal injection failed due to multiple futile attempts to establish an intravenous line, leaving him as one of only two individuals in the US to survive an execution attempt. Also read | International outcry over US plans to use 'inhuman' nitrogen asphyxiation to execute death row inmate Smith's attorneys have argued that in 2020, the American Veterinary Medical Association in its euthanasia guidelines cleared nitrogen hypoxia only for pigs. For other mammals, it said, nitrogen hypoxia could create an "anoxic environment that is distressing for some species." (With inputs from agencies)

'I’m just not ready': US man set to be executed by nitrogen gas, months after botched attempt

Families of two prisoners who died in separate jails&nbsp;in Alabama, USA have taken the state to court after it was found that internal organs were missing from their bodies when they were returned to their loved ones. The federal lawsuit filed by family of late Brandon Clay Dotson has accused that his body was decomposing and his heart was missing when the remains were handed over by the prison&nbsp;authorities. A court filing in the case also mentions that daughter of Charles Edward Singleton, another prisoner who died in jail, found that all of her father's internal organs were missing.

The Associated Press qouted Lauren Faraino, Dotson family lawyer as saying that as multiple families have had this experience, this is “absolutely part of a pattern.”

On November 16, Dotson was found dead at Ventress Correctional Facility. When his boy was handed over to the family, they suspected foul play and hired a pathologist who carried out a second autopsy. It was then found that the heart was missing from the dead body, says the lawsuit. The family is asking the state the reason behind this and is demanding that the heart be returned.

<h2>A 'grave robbery'</h2>

“Defendants’ outrageous and inexcusable mishandling of the deceased’s body amounts to a reprehensible violation of human dignity and common decency,” says the lawsuit, as per AP.

“...their appalling misconduct is nothing short of grave robbery and mutilation.” it adds.

Faraino said that&nbsp;on making inquiries, the family found&nbsp;there had been several such cases.

Watch | Hunter Biden's surprise visit to Capitol Hill causes frenzy in US Congress

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In a court filing last week, the Dotsons mentioned the case of Charles Edward Singleton. The filing reportedly says that Singleton's family found that all of his internal organs were missing from his dead body. The filing mentions writing from Charlene Drake, Singleton's daughter which corroborates what Dotson family has said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mealy-mouth-politician-lies-and-more-desantis-and-haley-engage-in-verbal-battle-at-pre-iowa-debate-678851">'Mealy-mouth politician', 'lies' and more: DeSantis and Haley engage in verbal battle at pre-Iowa debate</a>

Drake quoted the funeral director who told her that “normally the organs are in a bag placed back in the body after an autopsy, but Charles had been brought to the funeral home with no internal organs.”&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mealy-mouth-politician-lies-and-more-desantis-and-haley-engage-in-verbal-battle-at-pre-iowa-debate-678851">'Mealy-mouth politician', 'lies' and more: DeSantis and Haley engage in verbal battle at pre-Iowa debate</a>

The Dotsons now contend that Brandon Clay Dotson's heart may have been inside his body during state autopsy. They say that it may have been given to the medical school at University of Alabama at Birmingham

AP reports that the university had termed this claim "bald speculation". The university has also made a court filing declaring that it did not perform the autopsy and did not receive Dotson's organs.

(With inputs from agencies)

Families of two prisoners who died in separate jails in Alabama, USA have taken the state to court after it was found that internal organs were missing from their bodies when they were returned to their loved ones.

Families of two prisoners who died in separate jails in Alabama, USA have taken the state to court after it was found that internal organs were missing from their bodies when they were returned to their loved ones. The federal lawsuit filed by family of late Brandon Clay Dotson has accused that his body was decomposing and his heart was missing when the remains were handed over by the prison authorities. A court filing in the case also mentions that daughter of Charles Edward Singleton, another prisoner who died in jail, found that all of her father's internal organs were missing. The Associated Press qouted Lauren Faraino, Dotson family lawyer as saying that as multiple families have had this experience, this is “absolutely part of a pattern.” On November 16, Dotson was found dead at Ventress Correctional Facility. When his boy was handed over to the family, they suspected foul play and hired a pathologist who carried out a second autopsy. It was then found that the heart was missing from the dead body, says the lawsuit. The family is asking the state the reason behind this and is demanding that the heart be returned. A 'grave robbery' “Defendants’ outrageous and inexcusable mishandling of the deceased’s body amounts to a reprehensible violation of human dignity and common decency,” says the lawsuit, as per AP. “...their appalling misconduct is nothing short of grave robbery and mutilation.” it adds. Faraino said that on making inquiries, the family found there had been several such cases. Watch | Hunter Biden's surprise visit to Capitol Hill causes frenzy in US Congress × In a court filing last week, the Dotsons mentioned the case of Charles Edward Singleton. The filing reportedly says that Singleton's family found that all of his internal organs were missing from his dead body. The filing mentions writing from Charlene Drake, Singleton's daughter which corroborates what Dotson family has said. Also Read | 'Mealy-mouth politician', 'lies' and more: DeSantis and Haley engage in verbal battle at pre-Iowa debate Drake quoted the funeral director who told her that “normally the organs are in a bag placed back in the body after an autopsy, but Charles had been brought to the funeral home with no internal organs.” Also Read | 'Mealy-mouth politician', 'lies' and more: DeSantis and Haley engage in verbal battle at pre-Iowa debate The Dotsons now contend that Brandon Clay Dotson's heart may have been inside his body during state autopsy. They say that it may have been given to the medical school at University of Alabama at Birmingham AP reports that the university had termed this claim "bald speculation". The university has also made a court filing declaring that it did not perform the autopsy and did not receive Dotson's organs. (With inputs from agencies)

Alabama state accused of 'grave robbery' after jail returns inmate's body with his heart missing

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