The jury has reached the verdict of manslaughter in the murder trial for Elijah Noname.
The seven men and five women on the jury began deliberating Wednesday afternoon. Before delivering instructions to the jury, the judge dismissed a 13th juror because of an undisclosed issue. The jury reached a final decision around 10 p.m. on Wednesday.
Noname was first charged with second-degree murder in the death of Nolen Tanner at a Halloween party in October 2013.
The victim’s sister, Shesheena Tanner, told the trial that a fight broke out between several guests outside, including Noname, and she heard gunshots.
The victim’s girlfriend, Alisha Sheepskin, testified she fled from Noname after he fired a gun at Nolen Tanner.
Noname also took the stand during the trial. He said he shot Nolen Tanner after the victim stabbed him in the back.
In his instructions, the judge told the jury if they believe Noname’s evidence that he acted in self-defence, they must find him not guilty. The jury could also opt to convict him of manslaughter.
The court is expected to set a date for sentencing on Thursday, January 26th.
