Despite the PR hype, the feasibility of net energy production via plasma fusion reactor has not been demonstrated. They're not even close. The materials science alone may be an insurmountable challenge.
The problem that arises is that very few researchers are capable of making an accurate distinction between hype and real-world potential, particularly at the production system level.
These researchers and their lab directors are highly incentivized to error towards the hype end of the spectrum. If the guys cutting ten-figure checks had a clearer picture of the reality, they might reconsider continued investment.
This may be relevant to to the alleged murder.