Video - Texting Tragedy: The Michelle Carter Case

On July 13, 2014, the life of 18-year-old Conrad Roy III ended tragically in his truck due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Initially perceived as a suicide, the case took a dark turn when police examined his phone records. His girlfriend, Michelle Carter, then 17, had sent him numerous messages urging him to follow through with his plan to end his life. When Conrad hesitated and stepped out of his truck, Michelle texted him to "get back in." Tragically, Conrad complied. This case became a landmark in legal history, as Michelle was convicted of involuntary manslaughter for her role in his death, based solely on her text messages. The conviction sparked a national debate over whether words alone can hold someone accountable for another's suicide. Michelle served 11 months in prison and was released in 2020.