PONTIAC, Mich. — Prosecutors have called for a life sentence for Ethan Crumbley, the teenager who killed four students at Oxford High School in Michigan. Karen McDonald, the prosecutor, argued that Crumbley’s meticulous planning and “appetite for violence” should result in a lifetime of imprisonment. During a four-day hearing, McDonald emphasized how the students were defenseless and in a state of terror as the shooting unfolded. She also highlighted evidence that suggested the shooter derived pleasure from torturing birds. The hearing will determine whether Crumbley, who was 15 years old at the time of the attack, will be sentenced to life in prison or given a shorter term that allows for parole eligibility.

Crumbley pleaded guilty to murder, terrorism, and other crimes. If the judge, Kwame Rowe, does not choose a life sentence, Crumbley could face a minimum prison term between 25 and 40 years. The judge is set to announce his decision on September 29, with the actual sentencing scheduled for December 8.

The final witness in the case was Dr. Lisa Anacker, a psychiatrist who evaluated the shooter. She stated that Crumbley was not mentally ill at the time of the shooting according to Michigan law. Anacker emphasized that the research shows mental illness is not the predominant factor in the majority of violent acts in the country.

Crumbley’s defense argued that he was neglected by his parents and experienced a deteriorating mental state prior to the shooting. The defense presented a psychologist’s testimony, stating that Crumbley was mentally ill and could be rehabilitated through prison. Defense attorney Paulette Michel Loftin highlighted the shooter’s desperate state, including quitting the bowling team, failing subjects, and experiencing hallucinations and thoughts of suicide.

During the proceedings, the courtroom was filled with over 40 people, including family members of the victims who were overcome with grief as they listened to the prosecutor recount the shooting. McDonald quoted passages from Crumbley’s journal, in which he expressed a desire to watch his peers suffer and acknowledged that he would likely spend his life behind bars. The prosecutor also highlighted Crumbley’s extensive planning, including using toilet paper to muffle the sound of gunshots and researching the school’s layout and Michigan’s lack of a death penalty.

In addition to Crumbley, his parents, James and Jennifer Crumbley, face involuntary manslaughter charges for their role in making the gun accessible at home and allegedly ignoring their son’s mental health issues. The judge heard testimony from eyewitnesses, including staff members and students who bravely intervened during the attack. In total, four students lost their lives, while seven others were injured.

The judge’s decision on whether to sentence Crumbley to life in prison or a shorter term will have significant implications. As the sentencing date approaches, the community and the families of the victims await justice for their loved ones.