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South Carolina Court Overturns Alex Murdaugh Murder Convictions, Orders New Trial

May 13, 2026

Summary

The South Carolina Supreme Court overturned Alex Murdaugh's double-murder convictions for the deaths of his wife Maggie and son Paul, citing concerns over jury deliberations. A new trial has been granted for Murdaugh, who has consistently denied the killings.

How coverage differs

Left outlets focus on the legal reasoning and potential misconduct behind overturning Alex Murdaugh's convictions, while right outlets emphasize the emotional impact and Buster Murdaugh's “nightmare” reaction.

  • Left: Judicial integrity questioned as Murdaugh conviction overturned for unfair trial Left-leaning outlets focus on the South Carolina Supreme Court's decision to overturn Alex Murdaugh's murder convictions, emphasizing the legal reasoning behind the new trial order. They highlight concerns over jury deliberations and potential judicial misconduct that led to the ruling.
  • Center: High court grants Alex Murdaugh new trial over jury deliberation concerns Center outlets report factually on the South Carolina Supreme Court's decision to overturn Alex Murdaugh's murder convictions for the deaths of his wife and son. They detail the court's order for a new trial, citing concerns about jury deliberations.
  • Right: Family's ‘nightmare’ persists after Murdaugh convictions overturned Right-leaning outlets lead with the emotional impact of the overturned convictions, prominently featuring Buster Murdaugh's reaction to his father's new trial. They frame the situation as a 'nightmare' for the family, highlighting the personal toll of the ongoing legal battle.

Coverage by lane

Left

  • South Carolina court tosses murder conviction in Alex Murdaugh case

Center

  • Alex Murdaugh Granted New Trial for Murder of Wife and Son
  • South Carolina Supreme Court overturns Alex Murdaugh’s murder convictions in deaths of wife and son

Right

  • Buster Murdaugh reacts to dad Alex Murdaugh’s double-murder convictions getting overturned: ‘A nightmare’

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