Judge backs Pike’s attorneys, mandates preservation of execution evidence

A Tennessee judge has ordered state authorities to preserve all evidence connected to the failed execution of death-row inmate Christa Pike.

According to CNN, Judge I’Ashea Myles granted an emergency motion filed by Pike’s attorneys on Wednesday.

The order covers communications among state officials, medical supplies, restraints, gurneys, photographs, recordings and any 911 calls connected to the execution attempt.

“I want you all to preserve all of that information,” Myles said, warning officials to “take special care not to lose, misplace or accidentally delete” relevant material.

Pike’s attorney, Randy Spivey, said lawyers initially believed she was brain-dead before she unexpectedly regained consciousness.

“I do not have an explanation for what happened between Monday night and Tuesday morning, but what we do know is that Christa has a long road to recovery,” Spivey said.

Pike remains hospitalised with pneumonia, a blood clot and severe swelling in her arms and hands.