Homicide, a Class A2 felony offense, is manslaughter in the first degree in the following cases:

1. 1. When perpetrated without a design to effect death by a person while engaged in the commission of a misdemeanor;
2. 2. When perpetrated without a design to effect death, and in a heat of passion, but in a cruel and unusual manner, or by means of a dangerous weapon; unless it is committed under such circumstances as constitute excusable or justifiable homicide;
3. 3. When perpetrated unnecessarily either while resisting an attempt by the person killed to commit a crime, or after such attempt shall have failed.

R.L. 1910, § 2320; Amended by Laws 2025, HB 2104, c. 486, § 18, eff. January 1, 2026 (superseded document available).