Alex and Jordan enter a residential property late at night with the intent to steal electronics. During their unlawful entry, a homeowner returns unexpectedly, and in the ensuing struggle, the homeowner is fatally injured. What homicide charge is most applicable to Alex?
Felony murder is applicable because the homeowner's death occurred during the commission of an unlawful and dangerous felony (burglary). Under the felony murder rule, participants in the underlying felony can be held liable for any resulting deaths, regardless of intent. Second-degree murder requires a separate intent to kill, which Alex did not have. Voluntary manslaughter involves an intentional killing under circumstances like heat of passion, which is not relevant here. Negligent homicide involves unintentional death due to recklessness, which does not fit the context of committing a felony.
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