Christa Pike Aid Delayed

Dispatch recordings released after a public-records request show emergency help for Christa PikeChrista PikeAmerican murderer (born 1976) was delayed after Tennessee’s failed lethal-injection attempt. Prison officials confirmed the emergency at about 9:11 p.m., roughly half an hour after the first call, and responders were then allowed through the gates. Pike, 50, was sentenced to death for the 1995 torture and killing of classmate Colleen SlemmerColleen SlemmerAmerican murder victim. She received two doses of pentobarbital, survived and was hospitalized. Pike’s attorney also called 911, saying she was alive, unconscious and breathing abnormally. A prison caller said an ambulance was needed, while Central Control first denied making the call before confirming it. Gov. Bill LeeBill LeeAmerican businessman and politician (born 1959) ordered an inquiry and postponed remaining executions this year. Tennessee has not publicly explained the failure. Whether the state will try again remains unresolved.