Idaho delays execution of serial killer Thomas Creech after failed lethal injection attempts

Idaho on Wednesday delayed the execution of convicted serial killer Thomas Eugene Creech, one of the nation's longest-serving death row inmates, after a failed attempt at lethal injection. Creech, who has been convicted of five murders, was sentenced to die for the killing of a fellow prisoner with a battery-filled sock in 1981.

Idaho Department of Correction spokesperson Sanda Kuzeta-Cerimagic said in a statement "the medical team could not establish an IV line, rendering the execution unable to proceed." The Associated Press reported that three medical team members tried seven or eight times to establish an IV in both of Creech's arms and legs. 

"As a result, the death warrant will expire. The State will consider next steps," the spokesperson added.