'American Sniper' Jury Hears Killer's Taped Confession
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STEPHENVILLE, Texas (CBSDFW.COM/AP) - An investigator testifying during the trial of the man accused of killing "American Sniper" author Chris Kyle and a friend says both victims were repeatedly shot, indicating the shooter was "someone very violent."
Texas Ranger Danny Briley testified Monday during the capital murder trial of 27-year-old Eddie Ray Routh (rowth). Briley says the February 2013 shootings were intentional because Kyle was shot six times and his friend, Chad Littlefield, seven times.
During Monday's testimony, the jury saw how Routh looked the night of the killings. A police video shows him face down on a table in a police conference room when a Texas Rangers interrogator comes in to talk to him.
In the interrogation, Routh confessed to the shootings, saying, "I knew if I didn't take out his soul he would take mine." Routh said he shot Chad Littlefield before shooting Kyle.
When asked what he would say to families of his victims he Routh said, "I'm sorry for what I've done. We can work it out." The Texas Ranger repeatedly asked Routh if he knew what he'd done was wrong. Each time, Routh nodded or responded yes.
Defense attorneys say Routh, a former Marine who was taking anti-psychotic medication, was insane when Kyle and Littlefield took him to a shooting range to provide support and camaraderie.
They're trying to convince jurors to find Routh not guilty by reason of insanity. Prosecutors say he knew his actions were wrong and should be convicted of capital murder.
Twice during the trial Routh's boots were brought out to be identified by investigators. Now we know why. During the interrogation the Ranger asks Routh if he knew he had blood on his boots. A shocked Routh bends awkwardly over to see for himself.
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