What term is used for a killing that appears to have no motive?

The term used for a killing that appears to have no motive is referred to as a random killing. This indicates that the perpetrator had no specific target or reason for committing the act, which sets it apart from other types of homicides where motivation can be identified, such as personal disputes or premeditation. Random killings often provoke a sense of fear and confusion in communities, as they seem unpredictable and can happen to anyone without warning.

Intentional homicide, on the other hand, involves a clear intention to kill, generally motivated by various factors. Negligent homicide implies a lack of intention to kill but involves recklessness leading to someone's death. Pre-meditated murder indicates that the act was planned beforehand, involving a clear motive or goal. In contrast, a random killing lacks these elements, making it distinctive in the context of criminal classifications.