Tennessee death row inmate Christa Pike spoke publicly after surviving a lethal-injection attempt
Tennessee death row inmate Christa Pike, 50, issued her first public statement Friday since surviving a failed lethal injection on September 30. In a statement released by her legal team, Pike said she remains in constant pain but is recovering. She said she was “deeply hurt by the incompetence” and continues to think about her victim Colleen Slemmer’s family.
More context
After surviving the September 30 lethal-injection attempt, 50-year-old Tennessee death row inmate Christa Pike spoke publicly for the first time Friday, reporting persistent pain. Her legal team released the statement on social media.
“There hasn't been a moment since that night when I haven't been in pain,” Pike said, adding that she is recovering and getting stronger. She said she entered the execution chamber prepared to die in peace and woke up alone and confused in a hospital bed. She said she felt profoundly wounded by the incompetence and remained mindful of the suffering of Slemmer’s family.
Pike survived two doses of pentobarbital. Her lawyers previously said she had pneumonia, significant arm swelling and was unable to swallow. She has since returned to prison for the 1995 murder of Colleen Slemmer.
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Verifier’s note
France 24 reports Pike’s first public statement after surviving the September execution attempt, including her ongoing pain. BBC independently reports the same statement and event; both were published on October 30, 2026.