The firing squad is certainly faster — and more violent — than lethal ... There was no warning or countdown. The abrupt crack of the rifles startled me. And the white target with the red bull’s-eye ...

It will be three people holding rifles about 15 feet away who will complete his punishment in what will be the United States' first firing squad execution in 15 years. Some 46 prisoners have been ...

Brad Sigmon, 67, has opted not to die by electrocution or lethal injection in his planned March 7 execution. The last firing squad execution was carried out by Utah in 2010.

Unlike South Carolina, Utah uses a five-member firing squad with .30-caliber rifles loaded with two rounds. The five shooters are more than 20 to 20 feet away from the prisoner. One of the rifles ...