Involuntary manslaughter is a criminal offense defined as the unintentional killing (homicide) of another person as a result of criminal negligence, recklessness, or during the commission of a misdemeanor (driving while intoxicated), infraction (speeding), or a felony crime that was not inherently dangerous. Involuntary manslaughter is usually a felony offense and often includes significant jail or prison time as potential punishment.
Involuntary manslaughter laws vary from state to state and are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.
In Minnesota, involuntary manslaughter is addressed under the state's homicide statutes. Specifically, Minnesota law defines involuntary manslaughter as causing the death of another person through negligence, recklessness, or by committing a misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor that leads to death, such as driving while intoxicated. This is distinct from 'manslaughter in the first degree' which involves killing someone in the heat of passion or while committing or attempting to commit a misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor that involves violence. Involuntary manslaughter in Minnesota is typically classified as 'manslaughter in the second degree' and is considered a felony. The punishment for involuntary manslaughter in Minnesota can include imprisonment, fines, or both, and the specific penalties depend on the circumstances of the case and the degree of negligence or recklessness involved.