What describes the crime of involuntary manslaughter?

The crime of involuntary manslaughter is characterized by an unintentional killing that results from a person's reckless or negligent behavior, rather than from a deliberate intention to cause harm. When examining the elements provided in the choices, the correct answer highlights that involuntary manslaughter often occurs while committing or attempting to commit a felony or misdemeanor. This reflects the idea that the individual did not intend to kill but was engaged in illegal activity that led to someone's death, thus demonstrating the reckless disregard for human life that constitutes this form of manslaughter.

This definition aligns with legal statutes regarding involuntary manslaughter, which impose liability for unintentional killings resulting from unlawful acts or criminal negligence. In contrast, the other options involve scenarios where intent or justified acts are present; for instance, intentionally killing another person signifies a clear intent to harm, while killing in self-defense implies justification for the act due to an immediate threat. Killing in a fit of rage may suggest a lack of premeditation, but it still stems from an emotional volition rather than negligence. Therefore, the appropriate choice accurately captures the essence of involuntary manslaughter as linked to actions that lead to fatal outcomes without intent to kill.