Jury deliberations to begin in deadly 2024 Halloween mass shooting trial
ORLANDO, Fla. —
Closing arguments are set to begin in the trial of Jaylen Edgar, a teenager accused of killing two people during a shooting rampage in downtown Orlando on Halloween in 2024.
Edgar had the opportunity to speak to the jury on Monday, but instead decided not to testify.
The judge then asked, “Do you believe that anyone has forced you or pressured you into making that decision to exercise your right to remain silent?”
Edgar answered, “No, sir.”
Edgar’s lawyer did not give an opening statement or call any witnesses.
Prosecutors presented surveillance video of the shooting and the chaos that followed.
Experts testified about DNA evidence, stating that the victim’s blood was found on Edgar’s shirt. They also said bullet shells found on Orange Avenue came from the gun Edgar had.
Edgar was 17 years old at the time of the shooting.
In recent months, he suggested he was insane at the time. Two psychologists evaluated him, but apparently did not support that claim.
The only way Edgar could have tried to convince the jury of his insanity would have been to take the stand, but he has chosen not to testify.
“There’s been no evidence elicited in the state’s case in chief that the defense is aware of that would establish the authority for giving the insanity defense, do you understand that?” the judge asked.
Edgar responded, “Yes.”
With Edgar’s decision not to testify, the jury will not have the insanity defense to consider.
Edgar could get life in prison for the attack.
