Louisiana Executes Jessie Hoffman Jr. in First Nitrogen Gas Death

Louisiana executed Jessie Hoffman Jr. on March 18, 2025, using nitrogen gas, the state’s first such execution. Hoffman, convicted of murdering Mary “Molly” Elliott in 1996, declined final statements. The method, characterized as painless, follows a broader trend of states resuming executions amid legal and public scrutiny.

On March 18, 2025, Louisiana executed Jessie Hoffman Jr. using nitrogen gas, marking the first use of this method in the state and resuming executions after a 15-year hiatus. Hoffman, convicted of murdering Mary “Molly” Elliott in 1996, declined to make a final statement or have a last meal before his execution at the Louisiana State Penitentiary.

Hoffman’s execution protocol involved him being strapped to a gurney with a full-face respirator mask. The nitrogen gas was pumped into the mask, depriving him of oxygen, resulting in his death being deemed painless by officials. The execution began at 6:21 PM, with witnesses noting Hoffman’s involuntary movements, characterized as involuntary reactions to dying.

The execution follows a unique method previously adopted in Alabama, with nitrogen gas being used in five executions across the U.S., including four in Alabama. Louisiana expanded its execution methods to include nitrogen hypoxia and electrocution, while Arkansas recently passed legislation allowing the same. Nationally, executions have declined due to legal issues and a lack of lethal injection drugs, raising societal concerns about capital punishment.

Hoffman’s lawyers had sought last-minute intervention from the Supreme Court against his execution, arguing the method violated the Eighth Amendment. The court, however, declined, stating that the execution could proceed as planned. Witnessing the execution included media members and spiritual advisors, who noted the use of Buddhist chanting before Hoffman’s death.

Louisiana’s execution of Jessie Hoffman Jr. used nitrogen gas, a first for the state, reflecting a significant shift in execution methods after a lengthy interruption. The case highlights ongoing debates over capital punishment and its methods amid public and legal challenges. As execution rates decline nationally, Louisiana aims to resume executions actively, asserting its commitment to delivering justice to victims’ families.

Original Source: apnews.com