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Jury to hear closing arguments in Tupac killing trial

Defense lawyers say prosecutors have no DNA, forensics or eyewitnesses and are relying mainly on Davis’s own words to prove the 1996 killing.

  • Closing statements are scheduled for Monday in the trial of Duane Davis, who faces a single count of murder with a deadly weapon for the 1996 killing of Tupac Shakur.
  • Prosecutors allege Davis orchestrated the shooting as retaliation for a fight between his nephew, Orlando 'Baby Lane' Anderson, and Shakur's entourage at the MGM Grand; Davis has publicly admitted to his role for nearly two decades.
  • Defense attorney Michael Sanft argues the state lacks physical evidence like DNA or forensics to corroborate Davis's statements, claiming admissions were merely 'puffing' intended to generate profit rather than reflect truth.
  • Over nine days, 16 jurors heard testimony from 24 prosecution witnesses and three defense witnesses; the outcome depends on whether they accept the defense's characterization of Davis as unreliable.
  • Prosecuting a 30-year-old cold case relying almost entirely on a defendant's confession presents a significant legal hurdle, especially since the lone survivor, Marion 'Suge' Knight, is not testifying.
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Closing arguments at Tupak Shakur murder trial: Prosecution and defense make final arguments - After closing arguments from the prosecution and defense, the decision will be left to the jury, bringing one of the longest unsolved cases to a close

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NBC LA broke the news in Los Angeles, United States on Monday, August 31, 2026.
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