Teen Cites Acne Drug in Fatal Shooting of Friends

On December 23, 2023, police responded to a shooting in Friendswood, Texas, finding Ethan Riley and Benjamin Bliek with gunshot wounds to the head. Initially, 17-year-old Connor Hilton claimed self-defense, but later confessed to planning the attack, stating he had been experiencing homicidal thoughts linked to the acne medication Accutane.

Connor Hilton admitted to having suicidal and homicidal thoughts, which he believed were amplified by Accutane. His defense team argued that the medication caused a psychotic disorder, impairing his ability to control his actions and intent, while prosecutors contended he acted knowingly.

Weeks before his murder trial, Hilton accepted a plea deal of 50 years for murder and aggravated assault. He waived his right to appeal. Ethan Riley died from his injuries, while Benjamin Bliek survived after extensive medical treatment.

Connor Hilton will be eligible for parole in August 2050. His family maintains that Accutane was the cause of his actions, a claim that was central to their defense strategy.