Which homicide classification corresponds to causing death through reckless actions?

• A. First-Degree Intentional Homicide
• B. Second-Degree Intentional Homicide
• C. Felony Murder
• D. Reckless Homicide

Answer: (D)

At the heart of this question is the offender’s state of mind when the death occurred. Reckless Homicide covers deaths caused by conduct that shows a conscious disregard for a substantial risk to life—there is no intent to kill, just reckless behavior that results in death. This is different from intentional homicide classifications, which require intent to kill, and from felony murder, where death happens during another felony regardless of intent to kill. An example would be firing a weapon in a crowded area without aiming at a specific person, yet someone dies because of that reckless act. So when death follows reckless actions, Reckless Homicide is the correct charge.