On December 3, 2026, the U.S. government plans to execute Nidal Hasan. Hasan was an Army psychiatrist who opened fire at Fort Hood 17 years ago, killing 13 people and wounding 32 others. After years of appeals, the Army will conduct the execution by firing squad.
Americans will watch the execution live online. This decision brings up serious questions about taking a life, even when it’s the life of a mass murderer.
Survivor’s Perspective
Alonzo Lunsford, a former Army staff sergeant who survived Hasan’s attack, plans to attend the execution. He believes one of Hasan’s survivors or a victim’s relative should pull the trigger. Though Lunsford has forgiven Hasan, he wants him punished.
Lunsford opposes turning the execution into entertainment. He argues that it should not be a spectacle and warns against trivializing the deaths of those killed in the attack.
During the shooting, Lunsford was shot above his left eye and pretended to be dead before escaping. Despite lifelong pain, he has dedicated himself to coaching basketball, mentoring youth, and supporting those with mental health issues.
Public Execution Controversy
War Secretary Pete Hegseth supports the public execution, asserting that Americans should witness the consequences of Hasan’s crimes. Yet opinions are divided. Vice President JD Vance doubts the Pentagon will proceed with streaming the execution.
Republican leaders like Rep. Austin Scott and Sen. Thom Tillis criticize the plan. Scott contends live streaming execution is akin to practices in oppressive regimes; Tillis calls it “beyond disgusting.” Catholic bishops have rejected the execution and its public broadcast, describing it as promoting a culture of death.
Security Concerns
The decision raises national security issues. Hasan, paralyzed since his 2009 attack, has spoken about becoming a martyr. Matthew Levitt, a former counterterrorism official, warns that videos of Hasan’s execution could be used by terrorist groups for propaganda.
Lunsford’s Final Encounter
During Hasan’s court-martial in 2013, Lunsford and Hasan locked eyes. Lunsford wants Hasan to see him again before his death. Lunsford wishes Hasan would apologize and repent.
Lunsford emphasizes personal freedom, which Hasan no longer has. He asserts that being accountable and using final moments to repent will be a meaningful conclusion.