What does 3rd degree murder entail according to Minnesota law?

Under Minnesota law, third-degree murder is defined as an act that demonstrates a depraved mind without regard for human life, where there is no specific intent to kill the victim. This means that third-degree murder involves actions that are considered extremely reckless or dangerous, leading to death, but do not stem from premeditated intent to cause harm to a specific individual.

The emphasis in this definition is on the recklessness of the behavior, reflecting a disregard for human safety. Third-degree murder can result from actions that, while not aiming directly at causing someone's death, pose a significant risk of death to others. This distinguishes it from first-degree murder, which requires intent to kill, and second-degree murder, which mandates intent but not premeditation.