BILLINGS — A federal jury in Billings could not reach a verdict Wednesday in the case against a man charged with a fatal stabbing in Lame Deer.
Cary Alden, 23, is charged in U.S. District Court with voluntary manslaughter for the death of Dusty Francis.
The jury informed the judge late Wednesday that they could not reach a unanimous verdict, resulting in a mistrial.
According to court documents, Alden and Francis were drinking together at a home on the Northern Cheyenne Reservation.
Francis became angry with a woman about spilling nail polish remover and tried to drag her out of the house.
A fight ensued between the two men, ending with Francis being stabbed five times.
Alden told the woman to call an ambulance.
“I don’t know if he’s going to make it,” said Alden, according to court documents.
While in tribal custody, Alden reportedly admitted he stabbed the victim.
An autopsy revealed Francis had multiple stab wounds, including injuries to his neck, back and elbow.
The charge of voluntary manslaughter stipulates that the murder happened in a sudden heat of passion.
Prosecutors indicated they will refile the case.
