PITTSBURGH – Robert Bowers, who shot and killed 11 worshipers at a Pittsburgh synagogue, is eligible for the death penalty, the jury that convicted him has decided.
The decision comes after less than two hours of deliberation. The jury had to decide three things: He was 18 or older, he had intent, and there were one or more aggravating factors.
PITTSBURGH SYNAGOGUE SHOOTING TEST: COMPLETE COVERAGE ⇒
The defense argued that Bowers has significant mental health issues, including schizophrenia, that should lead to a life sentence. Prosecutors, however, said Bowers carried out the killings with a clear and calculated plan.
The next phase of the trial is sentencing, when the same jury will decide whether Bowers receives the death penalty or spends his life in prison.
>>> Tree of Life, community reacts to guilty verdict in Pittsburgh synagogue shooting trial
If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health effects from the essay, go to 1027healingpartnership.org to find resources for help. As always, call 911 to report threats.
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