State v. Ayers

HARRIS, Justice.

Defendant’s conviction of involuntary manslaughter stemmed from his supplying a weapon to a minor. He contends on appeal that the evidence fails to show his conduct caused the death in question. Defendant’s conduct was plainly outrageous and clearly criminal. We however agree it did not amount to manslaughter. We accordingly reverse.

In November 1989 a .38 caliber handgun was taken in a robbery. It was later obtained by defendant Ayers, who regularly bought and sold stolen items. Defendant sold the gun to a minor for five dollars and a switchblade knife. Before closing the…