This section contains the nature of the case and procedural background.

Petersen (D) and another engaged in a drag race on a public street. During the race, the other driver disregarded a stop sign and accelerated through an intersection. The car was struck by a truck, and both the other driver and an occupant in that car were killed. D was convicted of manslaughter. D appealed: the act of accelerating into the intersection was an intervening cause, and his stopping at the intersection was an act of prudence which terminated his recklessness.

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