Deadly Conduct requires which of the following?

• A. Intentionally causing death
• B. Recklessly creates imminent danger or causes serious bodily injury
• C. Knowingly discharges a firearm toward a dwelling
• D. Negligence in handling a firearm

Answer: (B)

Deadly Conduct hinges on reckless actions that place others in imminent danger of serious bodily injury. The crucial element is that the person’s conduct creates a near-term risk; they don’t have to intend to hurt someone, but they must act with disregard for the substantial risk their behavior poses. “Imminent danger” means the danger is immediate or imminent, not a remote possibility, and “serious bodily injury” means injuries that involve a substantial risk of death, permanent disfigurement, or long-term impairment. This focus on recklessness and near-term risk distinguishes it from mere negligence or actions aiming to cause death. While discharging a firearm toward a dwelling can sometimes fall under related offenses if it creates that imminent danger, the defining concept here is the reckless creation of imminent danger or risk of serious bodily harm.