Who is Austin Thompson and what is he accused of?

Austin Thompson is an 18-year-old accused of a mass shooting in Raleigh, North Carolina, in October 2022 that resulted in five deaths.

Why is Austin Thompson pleading guilty?

Thompson is pleading guilty to avoid a trial and spare victims' families further trauma, according to his attorneys, who also cited a severe brain injury.

What happened during the Raleigh mass shooting?

The shooting, which occurred in the Hedingham neighborhood, left five people dead and two injured, including a police officer, after Thompson allegedly opened fire in the community.

Home / Crime and Justice / Raleigh Teen Pleads Guilty to Five Murders, Avoids Trial

Raleigh Teen Pleads Guilty to Five Murders, Avoids Trial

20 Jan

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Summary

Austin Thompson, 18, will plead guilty to five murders.
The shooting spree occurred in Raleigh's Hedingham neighborhood.
Thompson's attorneys cited a brain injury in the guilty plea.

Raleigh Teen Pleads Guilty to Five Murders, Avoids Trial

Austin Thompson, who was 15 at the time of the attack, will plead guilty to five counts of murder and other charges related to the Oct. 13, 2022, mass shooting in Raleigh's Hedingham neighborhood. His attorneys stated that the guilty plea, expected on Tuesday, aims to spare victims' families and the community the trauma of a trial.

Thompson's legal team referenced a serious brain injury he suffered when shot in the head during his apprehension by Raleigh police. This injury, they noted, prevents him from explaining his motives but has not altered his acceptance of responsibility for the events.

The shooting resulted in five fatalities and two injuries, including a police officer. Thompson faces charges including murder, attempted murder, and assault on a law enforcement officer. A sentencing date has not yet been determined.