Which type of murder includes cases where the death occurs during the commission of another crime, such as a heart attack during a robbery?

• A. Premeditated murder
• B. Un-premeditated murder
• C. Wanton murder
• D. Felony murder

Answer: (D)

The key idea is the felony murder doctrine: a death that occurs during the commission of a felony can be charged as murder, even if there was no intent to kill. In the example, a heart attack happens while robbing someone, so the death is tied to the felonious act of robbery. Under felony murder rules, the perpetrators can be held liable for the death simply because it occurred in the course of the felony, regardless of any plan to kill. This differs from premeditated murder, which requires an intentional, planned killing; and from un-premeditated murder, which involves intent to kill without planning. Wanton or depraved-heart murder involves extreme recklessness about causing death but not necessarily linked to committing another felony. Thus, the scenario best fits felony murder.