There are “no witnesses in this case,” the defense argues during the trial

By Maria Andrea Morales, Audrey Staudacher – April 21, 2024
Daily Stories | Murders | Shoot | Suspects | Victims |

The lawyer for a murder suspect claimed, “There are no witnesses in this case,” arguing that his client is not guilty because no one saw him commit the crime.

Eric Davis, 60, is charged with first-degree murder while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for his alleged involvement in the murder of 41-year-old Theodore Riley in the 1600 block of Gales Street, SE on July 19, 2021.

According to prosecutors, video surveillance footage shows Davis and Riley walking together through a residential neighborhood before turning into an alley between two houses. The alley, which was not captured on surveillance footage, was lined on either side with fences, gates and walls bordering private property.

A nearby camera recorded the sound of a loud noise, followed by footage of Davis running out of the alley. Riley was pronounced dead at the scene from a gunshot wound.

On April 18, the prosecutor called a deputy medical examiner from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) to explain Riley’s autopsy results.

The medical examiner collected a DNA blood card and bullet fragments from the victim’s body. The jury was shown photographs taken during the autopsy of the entry and exit wounds on his head caused by a bullet.

The autopsy also revealed abrasions on the left side of Riley’s head and face and on the left knee. The medical examiner testified that it was possible that these abrasions were the result of a fall to the ground.

The medical examiner determined the manner of death was homicide by gunshot wound.

According to the investigator, the cause of death was believed not to be suicide due to the stippling around the entry wound, which meant Riley was shot from a medium distance, which was not consistent with suicide.

The prosecution’s next witness was the lead detective of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) who testified about the alley’s two main entry and exit points, adding that all other possible entrances lead to the backyards of area residents and have locks were secured. .

He also said the sound heard on video surveillance footage was consistent with the sound of a gunshot.

On cross-examination, Davis’ attorney, Howard McEachern, pointed out that no video surveillance of the shooting itself had been recovered and that no physical altercation or aggressive behavior occurred between Riley and Davis before they entered the alley.

McEachern also argued that the fences and gates along the alley could have been climbed even if they were locked.

The detective agreed, saying, “It’s not impossible.”

After the conclusion of the detective’s testimony, the prosecutor rested their case.

The games return on April 22.

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