A man accused of fatally shooting a 34-year-old unhoused individual in Seattle’s Mount Baker neighborhood over the summer appeared in court on Thursday. The judge expressed serious concerns regarding the “troubling nature” of the allegations, labeling Kahmari Hale’s actions as alarming, and subsequently denied the request to reduce his bail.
If convicted, Hale could face a prison sentence ranging from 15 to 24 years. The firearm involved in the incident remains unaccounted for, reportedly taken from Hale weeks after the shooting occurred.
An omnibus hearing is set for December 5, with the trial scheduled for the 20th. During the proceedings, the defense argued that Hale acted in self-defense, asserting that he felt threatened when the victim, Stutson, moved his hand toward his hip in a manner Hale interpreted as menacing. Hale allegedly told police that he closed his eyes and fired, believing Stutson was close enough to inflict harm. However, Hale also acknowledged that Stutson did not make any overt threats or display a weapon.
Self-defense laws in the United States can vary significantly from state to state, reflecting different legal standards, definitions, and requirements. Most states allow individuals to use reasonable force to protect themselves from imminent harm. However, what constitutes “reasonable” can differ, with some states allowing for more aggressive responses than others.
Some states have a “duty to retreat” rule, meaning that individuals must attempt to escape or avoid confrontation before using deadly force. In contrast, “stand your ground” states do not require individuals to retreat and allow them to use deadly force without first attempting to escape if they feel threatened. Many states have laws based on the “Castle Doctrine,” which provides that individuals have the right to use force, including deadly force, to protect themselves within their own homes. The specifics of this doctrine can vary, particularly regarding whether it applies only to homes or extends to other properties.
Courts typically require that the threat faced must be immediate and necessary for self-defense claims to be valid. The interpretation of what constitutes an imminent threat can vary, influencing how cases are judged in different states. Some states have stricter guidelines about when deadly force can be used in self-defense situations. For example, certain states may require that the individual believes their life is in danger, while others may allow for the use of deadly force in defense of others or property.
Hale was described as an active student engaged in various sports, including football, baseball, and wrestling, and he participated in classes at a local restorative center. His family was present in court, highlighting his involvement in the community. Melissa Herrera, also unhoused, claims to have witnessed the events of that night.