Guide Note
Erik Kurtis Low was convicted of manslaughter in 2005 for a shooting death that involved drugs, alcohol and horseplay. On July 2, 2008, Low's conviction was overturned by the Utah Supreme Court. The court ruled that Low's conviction was by a mis-informed jury.
Fast Facts
- Age in 2008: 40
- Shooting occurred on May 8, 2003
- Victim Michael Jon Hirschey gave Low a "wedgie"
- Low was actually pulled up off of his feet.
- Both had been using drugs and drinking
- Low shot Hirschey in the shoulder and head
- Originally charged with murder
- Low claimed self-defense
- Jury was informed they could reduce the charge to manslaughter
- Originally convicted and sentenced to 16 years in prison
- Utah Supreme Court ruled that reducing the charge wasn't allowed
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