Man Faces Second-degree Murder Charge – MDCLC

Being convicted of violent crimes in Missouri will inevitably result in serious penalties. When the charge is murder, those who are confronted with these allegations must remember the life-changing consequences they face. With charges this severe, a legal defense to combat the allegations is a must.

On July 8, it was reported that a 30-year-old man was arrested for second-degree murder and weapons charges after an unplanned incident. According to the investigation, the male victim, age 31, bumped into an apartment door after tripping on a barbecue. As he walked away, the door opened. The man inside reportedly had a gun and yelled at the victim. As the victim walked up the stairs, shots rang out. Law enforcement said that 11 shots were fired. The victim was unarmed.

The victim was declared dead at the hospital. It is unclear if the men knew one another. The difference between second-degree murder, which the man in this case is charged with, and first-degree murder is based on intent. Since it is not believed there was deliberation in the shooting and the death was caused while trying to cause serious injury, it falls into the category of second-degree murder.

There is no debate that murder and other violent crimes are serious and warrant harsh penalties. Still, it is imperative to craft a defense against even the worst charges. If there were extenuating circumstances like a history of disagreements between the men or previous threats, it might be part of a defense. Having legal assistance may be critical to avoiding the harshest penalties, coming to a plea bargain or even getting an acquittal.