Minnesota Frees Man Serving Life in Child’s 2002 Death

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — A Black man who was sentenced to life behind bars as a teenager has walked out of a Minnesota prison.

Myon Burrell's release came hours after a pardons board commuted his sentence in a high-profile murder case. Burrell took his first steps as a free man to the sound of ringing bells and cheers from supporters.

His case, and his age at the time of the killing, raised questions about the integrity of the criminal justice system.

The Associated Press and American Public Media uncovered new evidence and serious flaws in the police investigation into the 2002 killing. The slaying involved an 11-year-old girl who was hit by a stray bullet while doing homework at her dining room table.