Texas teen’s case ends with guilty plea after Accutane-linked defense unfolds
In Friendswood, Texas, 17-year-old Connor Hilton fatally shot two friends during a gathering; he initially claimed self-defense, then admitted planning the attack as investigators pressed him, while his defense argued the acne medication isotretinoin (Accutane) caused psychosis and homicidal thoughts. The gun was reportedly purchased by Hilton’s mother. Ethan Riley died and Ben Bliek survived after extensive rehab. After a plea offer, Hilton pleaded guilty to murder and aggravated assault, receiving a 50-year prison sentence; prosecutors rejected the Accutane defense, and Hilton will be eligible for parole in 2050.