HATTIESBURG, Miss. – The trial of Orlando May commenced Tuesday at the Forrest County Circuit Court, presided over by Judge Bob Helfrich, delving into the tragic case of the late Southern Miss football player, MJ Daniels.
The Charges Against Orlando May
Orlando May faces serious charges, being accused of **capital murder** for the shooting death of Daniels in June 2024. According to prosecutors, the incident was both chilling and deliberate, suggesting that Daniels was sitting in his vehicle with the **engine running** when May allegedly shot him **twice in the head**.
Prosecution’s Opening Statements
In a compelling opening statement, prosecutors revealed plans to present testimony from **three co-defendants** who were present at the scene of the crime. Their accounts are expected to cast further light on May’s alleged actions, aiming to paint a picture of a calculated and premeditated act.
Defense’s Counterargument
Conversely, the defense team, led by public defender **John Helmert**, introduced an alternate theory. They asserted that Daniels was **already deceased** prior to May’s arrival, suggesting that the other co-defendants approached the car under different circumstances.
Key Witness Testimonies
Six witnesses took the stand on the first day of the trial, including five members of the **Hattiesburg Police Department**. The testimonies presented a crucial timeline of events leading up to and following the shooting.
Traffic Stop and Pursuit
One officer recounted a **traffic stop** initiated on a stolen vehicle just days after Daniels’ death. Unbeknownst to him at the time, the occupants were connected to the ongoing murder investigation. When the emergency lights were activated, the vehicle failed to stop, leading to a dramatic chase that jurors witnessed through dash-cam footage. This footage depicted Orlando May and co-defendant **Samir Green** exiting the vehicle and fleeing on foot.
Critical Forensic Insights
As the day progressed, **State Medical Examiner Dr. Staci Turner** took the stand, providing critical forensic details. She performed the autopsy on Daniels, confirming that he succumbed to **two gunshot wounds to the head**, categorizing the death as homicide. During her testimony, the defense used a styrofoam head to identify the entry wounds, marking a pivotal moment. This marked the first public disclosure of the specific locations of the gunshot wounds in court.
Discovery of the Weapon
Investigators revealed that a **.45-caliber handgun** was discovered inside Daniels’ car, tucked between the driver’s seat and center console. However, Dr. Turner clarified that both fatal shots were fired from a **9mm weapon**, illustrating a potentially complex and convoluted narrative surrounding the crime.
Looking Ahead
As the trial progresses, court proceedings will continue Wednesday morning, promising further testimonies from the prosecution. With the stakes high and emotions running deep, the unfolding drama of the courtroom will surely captivate the community and those following the case closely.
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