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Prosecution Rests in Melvindale Officer Killing Trial as Lopez Testifies and Is Removed From Stand

Jurors must decide if the shooting was murder or self-defense.

Overview

  • During cross-examination Monday, Michael Lopez was removed from the stand after he raised a barred claim that Corporal Mohamed Said had 'targeted' him, and the prosecutor asked to strike all of his testimony as the judge ended proceedings for the day.
  • Earlier Monday, prosecutors rested, and Lopez took the stand to claim self-defense, calling the shooting 'the most difficult thing' he has ever done.
  • Police and prosecutors say the encounter began at a Melvindale car wash, where Said chased Lopez, used a Taser during a struggle, and was then shot as Lopez fled.
  • Lopez testified that he thought the black Taser was a gun after he felt the electric shock, and he said he fired from the ground because he believed he was about to be killed.
  • Officers arrested Lopez in Southwest Detroit after a two-day manhunt using Said's handcuffs, and he faces charges that include murder, felon in possession of a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon, and drug possession.