An execution date has been scheduled for Nidal Hasan, the former Army Major responsible for a deadly shooting at Fort Hood in 2009, which resulted in 13 deaths. This execution will occur on December 3, 2026, at the same military base where the attack transpired, according to information sent to the victims’ families.
Hasan will face a firing squad, marking the first military execution since 1961. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell disclosed that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recommended this method, and President Trump approved it. “Judgement day for Hasan has finally come,” Parnell stated.
On November 5, 2009, Hasan opened fire at Fort Hood, injuring 32 people along with the 13 fatalities. The victims were unarmed soldiers in a readiness center preparing for deployment. Hasan fired 146 rounds during the attack. Since his conviction, he has been held on death row at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
Background on Military Executions
The last military execution took place 65 years ago, with the hanging of Pvt. John Bennett. The most recent execution by firing squad occurred during World War II, involving Pvt. Eddie Slovik for desertion. Army regulation 190-55 states that military executions require the president’s approval. A 2019 revision allows the method to be determined by the Secretary of the Army, following a recommendation by the Provost Marshal General.
Post-approval, the condemned is informed in person by the commandant, who is joined by a chaplain and possibly a defense attorney.
The Victims
Families of the November 5 victims were notified before the public announcement. Survivors and families were offered the chance to attend the execution. The victims have shared a bond forged through shared tragedy over 17 years. They hope this event marks the final chapter in a long-standing ordeal.
Lt. Col. Juanita Warman, 55
Maj. Libardo Eduardo Caraveo, 52
Capt. John P. Gaffaney, 56
Capt. Russell Seager, 51
Staff Sgt. Justin DeCrow, 32
Sgt. Amy Krueger, 29
Spc. Jason Dean Hunt, 22
Spc. Frederick Z. Greene, 29
Pfc. Aaron T Nemelka, 19
Pfc. Michael S. Pearson, 22
Pfc. Kham S. Xiong, 23
Pvt. Francheska Velez, 21 (along with her unborn child)
Michael Grant Cahill, 62
This story is developing, and further information will be shared as it becomes available.
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