[Poohbah]

Pantano screwed up, but I don't think he committed murder.

He was committing a felony, and people died when they weren't supposed to. That's "felony murder" right there.

Assuming he's truthful that he was fearful of attack by the terrorists,

Said fear having been caused solely by his own irresponsible actions.

it seems to me the more proper charge would be disregarding standing orders and SOP's.

Which amount to committing a felony, and the deaths directly consequent to committing said felony become two counts of murder.

This, by the way, is why you have a right to remain silent.

[colorado tanker]

If Pantano shot them in reasonable apprehension that his life or the life of another was in danger that's self-defense. It doesn't matter that his uncuffing the perps was a link in the events that created the apprehension.

I don't follow your claim that Pantano committed a felony. Are you saying uncuffing the terrorists and telling them to search the car is a felony? What felony is that?

My understanding from the press reports is Pantano is charged with intentional murder, not with felony murder.