Idaho murder suspect Bryan Kohberger could face execution by firing squad trends now
The 28-year-old grad student accused of stalking and murdering four college kids in Idaho could face a firing squad following the state's decision to pass a bill aimed at reviving the controversial punishment earlier this week.
Only nixed in 2009, the execution method is now back on the table in the Gem State - as the case surrounding alleged Idaho killer Bryan Kohberger has attracted the ire of millions across the country.
The murder suspect is currently facing the death penalty for the November murders of University of Idaho students Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin, and Xana Kernodle, after being arrested at his parents' home in Pennsylvania.
Kohberger, who was pursuing his PhD at nearby Washington State University before his arrest in January, is now back in Idaho where he is being kept in isolation far from other inmates given the depravity of his alleged crimes.
Bryan Kohberger, 28, may face death by firing squad if he is found guilty of murdering four University of Idaho college students
Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin, and Xana Kernodle were allegedly killed by Kohberger, who was arrested in January and is now being held in solitary confinement
The Idaho State Senate held a meeting Monday to debate the GOP-backed bill and voted overwhelmingly to bring the punishment back, with 24 out of 35 lawmakers motioning in its favor.
The bill's Republican sponsor, State Senator Bruce Skaug, spoke to Fox News Tuesday to confirm the passing of House Bill 186, which passed the State House of Representatives earlier this month
It gives authorities the option to order a death by firing squad, only if lethal injection drugs are unavailable within five days of a death warrant being issued.
'H186 has now passed the Idaho Senate and House with a veto proof majority,' said Skaug, explaining that the guidance will now make its way to Governor Brad Little's desk for final approval.
'Upon signature of the governor, the state may now more likely carry out justice, as determined by our judicial system, against those who have committed first degree murder,' Skaug said
'This is an important bill for victims, their families, and the rule of law.'
While not referencing Kohberger's alleged crimes directly, the senator's words come as attention surrounding the suspected killer's case - and his prospective punishment - has hit a head.
Rep. Bruce Skaug, a Republican from Nampa, championed a bill to reinstate firing squads as a legal alternative to lethal injection in death penalty cases
The bill does not specify how many or what type of firearms should be used in the execution, only saying the director of the IDOC would determine the procedures used in the execution.
While the punishment has its detractors, Skaug for months argued in its favor, saying he believed the option is more humane than lethal
