Lee’s lawyers asked the high court to keep the execution on hold, saying in a response that Alabama was asking it to intervene at the eleventh hour “to allow an execution that has been found unconstitutional to proceed”

The U.S. Supreme Court declined to let Alabama proceed with a nitrogen gas execution Thursday after a lower court ruled that the method is unconstitutional.

The justices decided not to lift an injunction blocking the state from carrying out the nation’s ninth execution by nitrogen gas. The decision spared death row inmate Jeffery Lee, 49, from being put to death by nitrogen that night.

A spokesperson for the Alabama Department of Corrections said the execution was off for the evening and the state would not try another method. The high court voted 6-3 and did not explain its reasoning. Three of the conservative justices — Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, and Neil Gorsuch — said they would grant Alabama’s request to lift the injunction and let the execution go forward.

“While I am disappointed the Supreme Court did not allow the state to proceed with Lee’s chosen method of execution, I remain committed to ensuring that justice is ultimately served for his victims,” Gov. Kay Ivey said.

Lee’s legal team hailed the decision and noted that his jury had voted for a sentence of life, which a judge overruled.

“His jury voted for life. Two courts ruled the method unconstitutional. Today, the Constitution prevailed,” the team said. “Now Governor Ivey can finish what the jury started: restore the jury’s verdict of life without parole.”

The ruling capped an extraordinary legal back-and-forth over the humaneness of the execution method. Lee filed a lawsuit challenging Alabama’s protocol as a violation of the constitutional ban on cruel and unusual punishment, and U.S. District Judge Emily Marks ruled the method constitutional in May.

But a three-judge panel from the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals reversed her decision Monday, saying the three minutes it could take for an inmate to lose awareness is an “intolerable” time frame “given the suffering that would likely take place under Alabama’s nitrogen hypoxia protocol.”

Marks reevaluated the case and ruled again Tuesday saying Lee had shown “that the protocol constitutes cruel and unusual punishment in violation of the Eighth Amendment.” The state appealed to the Supreme Court.

“If that ruling stands, it would be unprecedented in American history. Not only does it portend the first-ever permanent ban on a legislatively enacted method, but it would expand the concept of cruelty well beyond the bounds of the Eighth Amendment,” lawyers with the Alabama Attorney General’s Office wrote.

Lee’s lawyers asked the high court to keep the execution on hold, saying in a response that Alabama was asking it to intervene at the eleventh hour “to allow an execution that has been found unconstitutional to proceed.”

Advertisement

Prison officials said Lee did not request a final meal Thursday but had potato chips, Skittles, water and a Sprite in the hours ahead of his possible execution. Marks did not block the state from executing Lee with one of the other approved methods, the electric chair or lethal injection. It is unclear how quickly the state could switch, however.

Alabama began using nitrogen gas to carry out some executions in 2024. The method involves strapping a respirator to a person’s face and replacing breathable air with pure nitrogen gas, causing death from lack of oxygen.

During the previous Alabama nitrogen executions, the inmates shook, pulled at the restraints and exhibited labored breathing. During the state’s last execution by nitrogen gas, 30 minutes elapsed between Anthony Boyd exhibiting signs of being impacted by the gas and state officials closing the curtain to the viewing room to signal the execution was complete.

The state has maintained that the method is constitutional and causes no more suffering than other execution methods.

Lee, who is currently housed at William C. Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore, was convicted of two counts of capital murder for killing Jimmy Ellis and Elaine Thompson while robbing a pawnshop on Dec. 12, 1998.

Prosecutors said Lee entered Jimmy’s Pawnshop with a sawed-off shotgun and shot Ellis, the owner, and Thompson, an employee. A jury voted 7-5 to give Lee a sentence of life imprisonment. However a judge overrode that and sentenced him to death.

Bestselling author John Grisham called on Gov. Kay Ivey to honor the jury’s decision and commute Lee’s sentence to life without parole. Grisham said in a statement: “The practice of a judge overriding a jury was declared unconstitutional and so indefensible that Alabama itself abolished it in 2017. Jeffery Lee’s jury made its decision, the Alabama Legislature later agreed that juries, not judges, should decide life or death sentences.”

Gary Henderson, 33, was jailed for 38 months after he admitted two assaults on his ex-partner in Cumbernauld.

A sheriff has warned that the courts are taking a “dim” view of domestic abusers who choke their victims.

Gary Henderson, 33, was jailed for 38 months after he admitted two assaults on his ex-partner in Cumbernauld.

Airdrie Sheriff Court heard that on one occasion he put his arm around the woman’s neck and applied pressure.

Henderson’s pal stepped in to stop the assault which happened at the woman’s then home in Ivanhoe Road on July 17 last year.

Jack Lindsay, prosecuting, said the couple had been in an on-off relationship that ended in 2022 after eight years.

After they split the woman let Henderson stay with her sometimes and on the night of this assault he turned up with a friend whom he said had been attacked.

An argument soon started and Henderson became violent. When police arrived the woman was “in distress” and had red marks on her neck.

Henderson then breached bail conditions by going to his ex-partner’s new home in Tarbolton Road, Cumbernauld on January 4.

She agreed to let him sleep on the couch but another row ended with him punching her, giving her a bloodied nose.

Henderson has been in custody since his arrest on that occasion.

Sheriff Derek Livingston backdated the 38-month sentence to January 5 and said Henderson will be under supervision for a year when he is released from prison.

He told the accused: “The courts have been taking a fairly dim view of the compression of throats recently.”

The sheriff also imposed a five-year non-harassment order.

In April the Crown Office revealed that 50 per cent of domestic abuse victims have experienced non-fatal strangulation.

A spokesman said: “It is deeply concerning that the dangerous act of strangulation is increasingly prevalent.

“This is an extreme and distressing form of control and we are determined to tackle it.”

*Don’t miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.

And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here.

He said: “People who couldn’t find north Belfast on a map before this week, people who don’t care about the victim, about what happened to the community, about the young people who are now embroiled in this racist thuggery, and when they move on to their next target, it will be us here in Northern Ireland who are left to pick up the pieces.”

North Yorkshire Police is appealing for information after a fatal crash that took place just before 10.30pm in Thirsk town centre on Sunday night (June 7).

It happened on the Market Place, outside the Nova Bar, and involved a man and a white Mercedes A Class car.

RECOMMENDED READING:

“Sadly, the 61-year-old local man died at the scene despite the efforts of firefighters and paramedics. We are not in a position to name him at this time,” said a spokesperson for the force.

The Market Place was closed to traffic until 6am the next day (June 8) while emergency services worked at the scene and to allow the vehicle to be safely recovered.

The driver of the Mercedes – a 46-year-old man from Darlington – is assisting the investigation.

Witnesses or anyone with relevant CCTV or dashcam footage are urged to come forward and speak to police by emailing sciu@northyorkshire.police.uk and quote reference number 12260105347

The statement said Netanyahu expressed appreciation for Trump’s commitment to work towards a final agreement that included “the removal of enriched material, the dismantling of enrichment infrastructure, limits on missile production, and the cessation of Iran’s support for its terrorist proxies in the region”.

The quartet have been dubbed “York College’s Fab Four” following their success on the college’s access to higher education in humanities course for adults aged 19 or over.

Kierran Horsfield, 29, Poppy Jeavons, 22, Maurice Cooper, 22, and Isaac Lees, 20, have achieved distinction grades throughout the nine-month, full-time diploma.

The course allows students to choose to specialise in two of the three subject options: English literature, history or law.

One of two additional smaller units – politics: theory and Concepts or analysing short stories – is also selected.

Maurice Cooper (Image: Supplied)

Kierran and Maurice have accepted offers to study history at the University of Cambridge’s St Edmund’s College.

Poppy will be studying English Literature at Cambridge’s Wolfson College, while Isaac will study history and politics at Hughes Hall.

For Maurice, who left school six years ago without any GCSEs after being placed in a pupil referral unit from the age of 14, he will enrol at one of the world’s most renowned educational institutions.

He suffered from drink and drug addictions as a teenager but has been clean from both for almost four years.

St Edmund’s College (Image: Supplied)

Maurice said it had been a “big journey” to get to where he is now. “I didn’t think I would go to uni, because I didn’t have any GCSEs,” he said.

“It’s quite rare that someone doesn’t have any at all and I remember the day that my former classmates got their GCSEs and just feeling awful. Back then, I just thought I was too stupid for education.

“I did my GCSEs last year, though, and got a nine in English Literature. So after that, I had something in writing that suggested I wasn’t.

“Now, I’m going to Cambridge and I couldn’t have done it any other way than on an access course.

“I’ve never lived outside of York before and I’m from Acomb, so going from Acomb to Cambridge is going to be a change!”

‘I’ve finally got my happy ending’

Like Maurice, Poppy has an autism diagnosis and has finally prevailed in education after dropping out of her A Level studies three times due to a highly challenging set of circumstances. These included the death of a family friend she was living with during the Covid pandemic, a spell homeless and health issues.

Poppy Jeavons (Image: Supplied)

Poppy thanked her York College English literature tutor Alison Willis for supporting her, which she believes was crucial in ensuring her latest return to education had a “happy ending”.

“I had some issues in January when I got really ill and had to miss a few weeks. I thought everything was happening again and I might have to drop out, but Alison stopped that from happening,” Poppy said.

“She kept messaging me and sending me work, so I could still get my assignments done, even though I was in hospital. Now, I’ve finally got my happy ending!”

Kierran Horsfield (Image: Supplied)

Kierran, meanwhile, returned to education at York College more than a decade on from what he called the “absolutely catastrophic” experience of receiving four U (unclassified) AS Level grades at the age of 17.

He decided to give up his job as a support worker for people with brain injuries and autism-based learning difficulties to pursue a university education.

Read next:

Kierran now dreams of becoming a medieval historian. “I want to throw myself fully into history and die with like nine degrees and two University Challenge trophies!” he said.

“Before I came back to York College last summer, the only evidence I had of academic achievement was four Us at AS Level, so I was terrified handing in my first essay, but my tutors have been there 100 per cent of the way for 100 per cent of the time.”

Isaac Lees (Image: Supplied)

Isaac travelled to York College from Sheffield for the access course to fulfil his Oxbridge ambitions after his choice of A Level science subjects saw him fall short of the results required.

“I think I needed more guidance with my choices at school because I didn’t even do History GCSE and, now, I’m going to be studying it at Cambridge!” Isaac said.

“I’m very, very grateful for the standard of teaching I’ve had at York College.”

A tribute to Amy Winehouse will take place at St. James’ Stack in Newcastle, featuring a live show by performer Holly Cosgrove.

Described as “one of the most authentic Amy tribute performers,” Ms Cosgrove will perform a selection of Winehouse’s greatest hits, including Back to Black, Rehab, Valerie, You Know I’m No Good, and Tears Dry on Their Own.

The event will also highlight the genres that influenced Winehouse’s work, including soul, hip hop, jazz, and ska.

Fans will have the opportunity to enjoy food from Stack Newcastle’s lineup of street food vendors, including Brack Burger, Bao Down, Acropolis, Holy Duck, Zza Pizzeria, Texas Smoker, Tip Top, Melt, and Clucking Oinks.

The show, titled Absolute Amy, will take place on Thursday, September 17, with doors opening at 6.30pm and the performance beginning at 8pm.

Kevin Walker, events and entertainment director at Stack, said: “Few singers managed to convey raw emotion as well as Amy Winehouse did.

“In terms of both singing and songwriting she was in a class of her own but Holly is the most authentic tribute to her we’ve ever heard.

“For fans of Amy, this really will be a night they will never forget.”

Tickets are priced at £7 plus a booking fee.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially kicked off with the opening fixture between Mexico and South Africa, but the match was overshadowed by reported violent clashes outside the Estadio Azteca — where an 80-year-old man also died after a suspected heart attack

Video footage appears to capture scenes of disorder erupting close to the Estadio Azteca stadium, where the World Cup curtain-raiser saw Mexico take on South Africa.

The inaugural match of the eagerly awaited tournament, staged at the legendary Mexican venue, was marred by chaotic incidents as substantial crowds reportedly assembled near Gate 8.

Certain accounts indicate demonstrators were launching Molotov cocktails, with online footage seemingly depicting groups hurling objects at police formations while officers in riot equipment attempted to manage the disturbance.

Unrest has escalated throughout Mexico City as visitors and football supporters from across the globe descend upon the capital, with residents claiming authorities have prioritised the major sporting occasion over pressing social issues.

The previous evening, over 1,000 family members of Mexico’s disappeared individuals walked towards the stadium carrying candles and photographs, according to The Express.

The fixture itself, forming part of the FIFA World Cup’s opening day schedule, was proceeding inside the stadium during tonight’s disturbances, although worries persisted regarding access points and crowd security surrounding the ground.

Alongside the broader turmoil, a distinct emergency situation unfolded shortly before kick-off when an elderly attendee passed away at the stadium. An 80-year-old gentleman is believed to have suffered a suspected heart attack at Gate 1 of the Mexico City stadium moments before kick-off.

Emergency crews were summoned and medics from the World Cup security medical unit are said to have arrived at the location within minutes, administering cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and stabilising the gentleman before his transfer to hospital.

Initial reports suggested he had been resuscitated in the ambulance and was being monitored in a stable state, according to local officials, but he subsequently passed away. Authorities have yet to disclose additional information.

The 2026 tournament formally commenced at 8pm local time with the opening match between Mexico and South Africa, as the United States, Mexico and Canada gear up to collectively host 48 nations throughout a six-week contest.

The run-up to the World Cup has also been characterised by broader disputes, including geopolitical strains, with Iran having previously released statements indicating it might pull out of matches under specific circumstances.

Officials have yet to verify any detentions or casualties connected to the disturbances outside the ground, and there has been no formal confirmation regarding any interference with entry protocols or match proceedings.

In the 84th minute, Themba Zwane became involved in a tussle with Roberto Alvarado as Mexico attacked down the left flank. Zwane appeared to swing his left arm into Alvarado’s face, sending the Mexican midfielder to the ground clutching his head. Following a review prompted by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), Sampaio consulted the pitchside monitor before dismissing Zwane for violent conduct.

The council’s Domestic Violence and Abuse Partnership (DVAP) is encouraging anyone with concerns about their own safety or someone else’s to reach out for support.

Recommended reading:

Humberside Police issues warning ahead of World Cup

Councillor Lyn Healing, cabinet member for communities and public protection at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “Sport should bring people together, not put women and girls at greater risk.

“However, we sadly know that there is an increased risk of domestic violence and abuse during this period.

“Nobody should suffer alone and the council’s DVAP website provides information and support.

“In urgent matters, where there is a belief of immediate danger, always call the police on 999.”

As reported by The Press, police in North Yorkshire also said major tournaments can be a time when the risk of domestic abuse increases, adding that the force will “support and protect anyone who may be at risk.”

East Riding of Yorkshire Council said DVAP provides confidential, consent-based support to both adults and children affected by domestic abuse, as well as to individuals who recognise their own abusive behaviour and want to change.

Information is only shared if there are safeguarding concerns or to prevent serious criminal offences.

Residents can self-refer or make a professional referral by calling 01482 396368 or by completing the online DVAP self-referral form.

DVAP also offers emotional support for those in temporary accommodation due to domestic abuse and works closely with housing services.

Emergency support should always be sought by calling the police on 999.

For non-emergencies, the police can be contacted on 101.

Additional resources are available on the DVAP webpages at www.eastriding.gov.uk/living/crime-and-community-safety/domestic-violence/domestic-violence-adult-services/.

A range of national helplines are also available:

• The National Domestic Abuse Helpline is open 24/7 for emotional support and advice on 0808 2000 247.
• FLOWS (Finding Legal Options for Women Survivors) provides legal support for women experiencing domestic abuse and can be contacted on 0203 745 7707 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) or at flows@rcjadvice.org.uk.

Support services are also available for male victims:

• The ManKind Initiative operates a helpline for male victims of domestic abuse and violence, as well as their friends, family, and employers, on 01823 334244.
• The Men’s Advice Line is available on 0808 8010327 or via email at info@mensadviceline.org.uk.

Specialist support is available for the LGBT+ community through the National LGBT Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0800 999 5428.

Children and young people under 19 can contact Childline for confidential support on any issue, including domestic abuse, by calling 0800 111 111.

The Blue Door supports individuals across Humberside who have experienced domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Their helpline is 0800 197 47 87, and they can also be reached at (01724) 841 947 or by email at info@thebluedoor.org.

Refuge operates a 24-hour helpline for those fleeing abuse or seeking advice about their legal rights on 0808 2000 247.

Karma Nirvana offers support to women and girls affected by honour-based abuse or forced marriage and can be contacted on 0800 5999 247.