On June 25, 1906, the affluent Pittsburgh millionaire Harry Thaw shot and killed renowned architect Stanford White at a rooftop garden of Madison Square Garden in New York City. The pivotal moment of the confrontation stemmed from a longstanding rivalry tied to Thaw's wife, Evelyn Nesbit, a famous actress and model who had a romantic history with the influential architect. Thaw’s actions were fueled by strong emotions, particularly jealousy and the desire to defend his wife's honor. As tensions escalated, Thaw approached White and, in front of many witnesses, fired three shots, killing him instantly. The murder shocked society, given both men’s high status and depicted the tumultuous emotions surrounding their connections to Nesbit.

The shooting attracted immense public attention, leading to a lengthy and sensational trial that captivated America. Thaw’s defense centered on the argument that he was temporarily insane, a claim that sparked widespread debate about mental health in legal contexts. The trial also revealed the scandalous details of Nesbit’s past, further complicating perceptions of morality and societal norms of the time. Ultimately, the courtroom drama became a media sensation, marking a turning point in public interest regarding celebrity trials, mental health defenses, and the intersection of wealth, power, and crime in early 20th century America.