FRIENDSWOOD — The defense in the case of a Texas teen charged with murder told a Galveston County court that prescription acne medication may have triggered a temporary psychotic episode during a deadly shooting, according to Fox 26 Houston.

Connor Hilton, 20, is accused of fatally shooting 18-year-old Ethan Riley and severely injuring 21-year-old Brian Bliek at a Friendswood home on December 23, 2023. Hilton was 17 at the time of the incident.

Defense expert Dr. James Douglas Bremner testified that Hilton had been prescribed isotretinoin, commonly known as Accutane, for severe acne, and took four 80-milligram pills—exceeding his prescribed dosage—on the day of the shooting. Bremner said the excessive intake could have triggered a drug-induced psychotic state.

Fox 26 reported that Judge Rebecca Millo ruled the psychosis defense cannot be used to determine guilt during the trial, set to begin September 8, 2025, but it may be considered as mitigating evidence during sentencing if Hilton is convicted.

Isotretinoin is a potent oral medication for severe, treatment-resistant acne. While effective, it has been linked in rare cases to mood changes, depression, and other psychological effects.

Photo credit: Galveston County