Jury selection resumes in Christopher Schurr murder trial

Jury selection is underway in the second-degree murder trial of former Grand Rapids police officer Christopher Schurr, who is charged in the 2022 shooting death of Patrick Lyoya during a traffic stop. A pool of over 200 Kent County residents was summoned to complete questionnaires probing their familiarity with the case and potential biases, given that most prospective jurors had seen the widely circulated video of the incident or read related news coverage. Attorneys for both sides are rigorously questioning jurors about their impartiality, understanding of legal standards, and ability to set aside preconceived notions, particularly regarding use of force and issues of race and policing. Judge Christina Mims is overseeing the proceedings, ensuring the process protects juror anonymity and promotes fairness. Each side has been using peremptory challenges to excuse jurors, with the goal of seating 12 jurors and two alternates by the end of the week. The trial is expected to begin once the jury is finalized.