The father of a Fairfield, Connecticut prep school lacrosse player expressed disbelief after the acquittal of his son’s alleged murderer. Kevin McGrath, father of James “Jimmy” McGrath, stood outside the state Superior Court in Milford, Connecticut, visibly shocked by the jury’s decision. “I’m astonished at the results, but, you know, it’s due process,” he remarked, maintaining a stoic demeanor. He described his son as a “wonderful person” and acknowledged the jury’s verdict, despite his personal disbelief.

The case involved Raul Valle, who was acquitted of murdering 17-year-old Jimmy McGrath during a brawl at a high school party in 2022. Valle, then 16, was charged as an adult. After an eight-day trial and nearly three days of deliberation, the jury found Valle not guilty of murder and other charges including intentional manslaughter and assault. However, they were deadlocked on lesser charges of reckless manslaughter and assault, leading Judge Shari Murphy to declare a mistrial on those counts.

Kevin McGrath expressed his surprise at the verdict, stating he was prepared for a manslaughter conviction but not a complete acquittal. Despite his shock, he acknowledged that Valle received a fair trial and did not believe Valle intended to kill his son. McGrath also thanked first responders, investigators, and the media for their professionalism throughout the trial.

The incident occurred during a party involving underage drinking and a fight involving about 25 people. Witnesses reported that Valle was suspected of having a knife during the altercation. Jimmy McGrath suffered a fatal stab wound to the chest. Valle claimed self-defense during the trial.

The McGrath family attorney mentioned potential further legal actions regarding lesser charges. Meanwhile, civil litigation is ongoing between the parties involved.