Alabama Executes Man by Nitrogen Gas for 1993 Murder Over $200 Drug Debt

On October 23, 2025, Alabama carried out the execution of Anthony Boyd, 54, using the controversial nitrogen gas method, marking the seventh such execution by this technique in the state since 2024. Boyd was convicted for his involvement in the brutal 1993 killing of Gregory Huguley, who was set on fire over a $200 cocaine debt.

Boyd maintained his innocence through his final moments, stating, “I didn’t kill anybody. I didn’t participate in killing anybody,” and called for systemic changes to the justice system. Despite his requests to die by firing squad, the state denied the plea, proceeding with nitrogen gas inhalation at William C. Holman Correctional Facility.

The execution lasted approximately 30 minutes and featured observable physical distress, raising concerns from critics who label the method as cruel and unusual punishment. Alabama adopted nitrogen gas executions as an alternative after facing difficulties with lethal injection drugs.

Alabama’s Attorney General Steve Marshall reaffirmed the state’s commitment to justice for victims and their families following Boyd’s decades-long legal battles to delay his execution.