Which term means killing caused by criminal negligence?

• A. Negligent homicide
• B. Involuntary manslaughter
• C. Stranger homicide
• D. Murder

Answer: (A)

Criminal homicide charges hinge on the actor’s mental state and level of responsibility. When a death results from a negligent act or omission—careless conduct that a reasonable person would avoid—that is described by negligent homicide. This term directly links homicide to negligence, without any intent to kill. Murder involves intent or malice, so it doesn’t fit. Stranger homicide just describes who the victim is relative to the offender, not the cause or degree of liability. Involuntary manslaughter covers unintentional killings that arise from recklessness or criminal negligence in many places, but the expression negligent homicide most precisely conveys a death caused by criminal negligence, which is why it’s the best fit.