Wrong Doorbell Ring Leads to Trial for Shooting of Black Teen by Andrew Lester

Andrew "Dan" Lester, an 84-year-old white man, will stand trial for shooting Ralph Yarl, a Black teen who mistakenly knocked on his door. Yarl testified that he thought he was at the correct address but was met with hostility from Lester, who opened the door and shot him twice through a closed and locked storm door. Lester's attorney argued self-defense, citing his fear and the "castle doctrine" in Missouri law. Prosecutors countered that Lester shot an unarmed teenager. The shooting sparked national outcry and protests, although prosecutors stated that the charges against Lester do not have a racial component. Yarl has slowly recovered from his injuries and is planning for college, but his mother expressed concerns for his safety.