[1L]

>>These guys were beyond reckless.

Murder is an intentional act. Even manslaughter requires a mens rea — a criminal mind, if you will. At worst, this is gross negligence.

[TexasGator]

Remind yourself to get a good lawyer before you get into trouble.

[KevinB]

There are two kinds of intent, specific and general. Specific intent mean that the defendant intended to cause the death and, if proven, would result in a first degree murder charge. General intent means that the person did not intend to cause the death, but acted in such blatant regard for human life that loss of life was likely. This could result in a second degree murder charge or manslaughter charge depending on the circumstances.

I am sure no one arguing in this thread that second degree murder is not an appropriate charge is actually a lawyer. (I am a lawyer.)

Here is a link to a good discussion of the issue:

Murder in the Second Degree