Key takeaways:
- Bowers is accused of killing 11 worshippers in the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history
- Prosecutors said Bowers had “malice and hate” for Jewish people and described the attack as a “calculated and premeditated act of violence”
- The defense argued that Bowers was mentally ill and had a long history of mental health issues
Opening arguments have begun in the trial of Robert Bowers, the suspect in the 2018 Tree of Life synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Bowers is accused of killing 11 worshippers in what is considered to be the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history.
The federal jury trial began Tuesday morning with 12 jurors and six alternates chosen after a month of questioning of more than 200 jury candidates. Bowers faces 63 counts, including 11 counts each of obstruction of free exercise of religion and hate crime resulting in death. If convicted of some of the charges, he could face the death penalty.
In their opening arguments, prosecutors said Bowers had “malice and hate” for Jewish people. They described the attack as a “calculated and premeditated act of violence” and said Bowers had posted anti-Semitic messages on social media before the shooting.
The defense argued that Bowers was mentally ill and had a long history of mental health issues. They said he was not in control of his actions and that he had been “consumed by hatred and rage” at the time of the attack.
The trial is expected to last several weeks. The jury will hear from witnesses, including survivors of the attack, and will review evidence, including surveillance video and social media posts. The outcome of the trial could have a lasting impact on the victims’ families and the Pittsburgh community.
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