Opening Statements Begin In Bernard Parks' Granddaughter's Murder Case

Trial Expected To Last A Week

POSTED: 8:17 a.m. PDT June 26, 2002

LOS ANGELES -- Trial is under way for a man accused of killing the granddaughter of former LA Police Chief Bernard Parks.

In opening statements Tuesday, a prosecutor told jurors that the bullets that took the life of Lori Gonzalez were intended for a reputed gang member sitting next to her.

Deputy District Attorney Anthony Manzella said Samuel Shabazz opened fire on Ernest Gray as he sat in the passenger side of Gonzalez's car. But Gray ducked and Gonzalez was hit.

Shabazz is charged with murder for the May 2000 slaying. He's also charged with a special circumstance allegation that he was an active participant in a criminal street gang who carried out the murder in an effort to further the gang's activities. He faces a maximum of life in prison without parole.

His trial is expected to last about a week.