A 20-year-old man has been acquitted by a Connecticut jury of murder and manslaughter charges in connection with the death of a 17-year-old high school athlete. Raul Valle, who was 16 at the time of the May 2022 stabbing that resulted in the death of James “Jimmy” McGrath, was also found not guilty of lesser assault charges related to three other teenagers who were injured in the incident. Valle was tried as an adult and had pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The jury’s decision was reached on Wednesday, July 9, with Valle being acquitted of murder and involuntary manslaughter charges. A mistrial was declared for the lesser assault charges involving the three other injured teenagers as the jury could not reach a verdict on those charges.
Prosecutors alleged that Valle stabbed McGrath multiple times during a house party in Shelton, Conn., while Valle’s defense claimed self-defense during a brawl where three other teenagers were also stabbed but survived. Valle admitted to the stabbings while on the stand but stated that he did not intend to fight and felt overwhelmed during the incident.
Valle’s attorney was present, showing support by placing a hand on his client’s shoulder as the verdict was read. The victim’s father expressed shock at the verdict, stating that he did not believe Valle intended to kill McGrath and emphasized the loss of a young man with a promising future.
Valle rejected a 40-year plea deal prior to the trial. He is facing ongoing civil lawsuits related to McGrath’s death, and a retrial on the separate assault charges is still a possibility. The homeowners of the residence where the party took place, Paul and Susanna Leifer, are also facing legal action for allowing minors to be served alcohol at the party.
Fairfield Prep remembered McGrath as a beloved student and athlete, highlighting his positive impact on those around him. McGrath’s obituary described him as a joyful individual with a kind heart who was a loving friend to many.
