Aaron was responsible for for his own death, in the same way that every human being is responsible for their own life once they reach adult-hood. To say that he was responsible is to say nothing at all really, because most of us in a forum such as this have that mental model of person-hood.<p>Studies of suicide show that during harsh times such as during a crisis or a drought suicides go up. Of course those extra suicides are responsible for their actions but we recognise that external factors _can_ cause some people to go on downward spirals resulting in their deaths.<p>If the justice system had been more merciful and compassionate Aaron would undoubtedly still be alive. Yes, he was responsible for taking his own life. Yes, the pressure he was put under was indirectly a cause in him taking his own life. The laws are unjust and the penalties are too harsh.