Vehicular manslaughter is a criminal offense defined as the unintentional killing (homicide) of another person as a result of criminal negligence or recklessness while operating a motor vehicle—often while the operator is intoxicated by alcohol or drugs, engaged in a high risk activity such as street racing, or committing a misdemeanor or infraction offense (speeding) with ordinary negligence.

Vehicular manslaughter is usually a felony offense and often includes significant jail or prison time as potential punishment. Vehicular manslaughter laws vary from state to state and are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.

In Missouri, vehicular manslaughter is referred to as 'involuntary manslaughter' under the Missouri Revised Statutes. Specifically, Section 565.024 outlines that a person commits involuntary manslaughter in the first degree if they act with criminal negligence to cause the death of another person while operating a motor vehicle. This can include situations where the driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or is engaging in reckless behavior such as excessive speeding or street racing. Involuntary manslaughter in the first degree is a Class C or Class B felony in Missouri, depending on the circumstances, with potential penalties including significant prison time and fines. Additionally, if the operator was intoxicated, they may face charges under Missouri's DWI laws, which can further increase the severity of the punishment.