§ 565.024 RSMo – First-Degree Involuntary Manslaughter in Missouri

Posted by Christopher Combs on July 21, 2025

565.024. Involuntary manslaughter, first degree, penalty.

This law defines first-degree involuntary manslaughter in Missouri and explains the punishment, including increased penalties when the victim is a law enforcement officer or close relative of one.

1. A person commits first-degree involuntary manslaughter if they recklessly cause someone else’s death.

2. This crime is usually a class C felony. But if the victim was:

A law enforcement officer who was intentionally targeted, or
A close family member (within second degree) of a law enforcement officer who was intentionally targeted,

then it becomes a class B felony.