From The Texas Tribune · Associated Press · · 2m
Pentagon Livestreams Fort Hood Shooter Execution
Pentagon to livestream military execution of Fort Hood shooter Nidal Malik Hasan.
In brief
Pentagon to livestream military execution of Fort Hood shooter Nidal Malik Hasan. The Pentagon will livestream the execution of Fort Hood shooter Nidal Malik Hasan by firing squad on December 3, 2023, after his 2009 shooting spree. Originally reported by The Texas Tribune.
Pentagon announces execution livestream
The Pentagon confirmed Thursday that the firing squad execution of Fort Hood shooter Nidal Malik Hasan will be livestreamed, a stunning revelation about plans for the first military execution in more than 65 years.
“We’ll make sure that people are able to watch it, that it’s public.”
Execution date and background
Hasan was convicted of killing 13 people and injuring 32 others at Fort Hood in 2009, with the execution scheduled for December 3.
Defense Secretary Hegseth's stance
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described the execution as public, saying, 'We’ll make sure that people are able to watch it, that it’s public.'
“We’ll make sure that people are able to watch it, that it’s public.”
Legal concerns about livestreaming
Experts warn that Hasan could file a habeas petition to delay the execution, potentially outlasting the current administration.
Death penalty expert's view
Death penalty expert Deborah Denno said livestreaming could make the process 'much more transparent' and inform the public about capital punishment.
“It could be a good idea because it would be transparent and the public would be fully aware that it’s happening.”
Military execution history
The Pentagon stated that the military hasn’t executed a service member by firing squad since World War II, with the last execution on April 13, 1961.
Firing squad as alternative
Experts suggest firing squads are a quicker, cleaner alternative to lethal injections, especially when states face drug shortages for lethal injections.
Legal and policy questions
Elisabeth Semel raised concerns about the dignity of the defendant, who will be eligible to view the execution, and the Trump administration’s motives for the spectacle.
Hasan's background
Hasan, an Army psychiatrist who held the rank of major, opened fire at Fort Hood on November 5, 2009, killing 13 people and injuring 32 others.
Legal representation concerns
Attorney John Galligan said Hasan has not been provided legal counsel after Trump signed off on his execution, breaching Army regulations.
Public execution context
Amnesty International reported at least 17 public executions in 2025, including 11 in Iran and 6 in Afghanistan.
What matters most
The Pentagon will livestream the execution of Fort Hood shooter Nidal Malik Hasan by firing squad on December 3, 2023, after his 2009 shooting spree.
