Another poorly written story. Doesn’t say why the prosecutors did the plea deal, but there is usually some problem with the case or they didn’t think they could get the death penalty.
Not anywhere close to a death penalty case under the current rules. A good prosecutor and a so-so defense attorney and you might get a first degree conviction out of it.
Not enough facts here - was the killer able to get a good lawyer/Is she from a "good" family?