What is the criterion for involuntary manslaughter?

Involuntary manslaughter in Missouri is primarily defined by the act of recklessly causing the death of another person. This means that the individual did not intend to kill but disregarded a substantial and unjustifiable risk that their actions could lead to someone's death.

Being "reckless" implies a conscious disregard for the known risks associated with one's actions, demonstrating a gross deviation from the standard of care that a reasonable person would observe in the same situation. This focus on negligence or recklessness, rather than intent, is what differentiates involuntary manslaughter from more serious charges like murder, where intent to kill is a key component.

Other options do not align with the specific legal definition of involuntary manslaughter. Intentionally causing death pertains to murder or a similar charge, while accidentally causing death during the commission of a crime could relate to a different legal standard, potentially being categorized as felony murder depending on the circumstances. Performing an action resulting in unintended death lacks the critical element of recklessness or knowledge of the risk that defines involuntary manslaughter in Missouri law.