South Carolina Supreme Court overturns Alex Murdaugh’s murder conviction and orders new trial

The South Carolina Supreme Court has overturned the murder conviction of Alex Murdaugh, who was accused of killing his wife and son in June 2021.

In a unanimous ruling, South Carolina’s high court ordered a new trial due to jury tampering concerns involving the county clerk.

“Although we are aware of the time, money, and effort expended for this lengthy trial, we have no choice but to reverse the denial of Murdaugh’s motion for a new trial due to [Becky] Hill’s improper external influences on the jury and remand for a new trial,” the justices wrote in the 5-0 ruling.

The decision is the latest twist in the case.

Murdaugh was previously sentenced to two consecutive life terms for shooting his wife and son on their hunting estate. He remains in prison for financial crimes.

This is a breaking news story and will be updated.