When a person is charged with a crime, he or she faces multiple decisions that will likely have a significant impact on the rest of their lives. Most people in Missouri in such a situation feel unprepared to make these decisions without professional guidance. Unfortunately, three teenagers, now charged with murder, are now likely considering their options.
The three were arrested in response to the death of another 19-year-old outside of a pool hall. Reports indicate that the victim told a witness that he was going to step outside to meet one of the 19-year-olds now accused of his murder. Surveillance footage reportedly shows the victim stepping out into the parking lot and waiting as if he were meeting someone.
Two people are then allegedly seen on the footage approaching the victim with their hands in their pockets. As they approach, they reportedly move their hands and fire multiple shots before leaving. The victim died at the scene. A witness reportedly identified one of the teenagers in the video, naming him as the person the victim planned to meet; he ultimately turned himself in and was charged with first degree murder and armed criminal action. A second 19-year-old male now faces the same charges while a 17-year-old female, who reportedly admitted to giving one of the alleged shooters a gun, is charged with second-degree murder and armed criminal action.
Despite the reports of the arrests in connection with the alleged murder, there are many details that are unclear, including a potential motive for the shooting. While being questioned by law enforcement officers is daunting for anyone, it may be especially so for teenagers. Because of this, those facing criminal charges in Missouri and across the country often want an experienced criminal defense attorney on their side who can help them fully understand the implications of any information they provide as well as guide them throughout the entirety of the process.