HILLSBOROUGH, N.C. — The fate of Terry McMillian Jr. lies in the hands of a jury after closing arguments were presented in his murder trial, stemming from the death of Home Depot employee Gary Rasor in October 2022. The case has captivated local attention, highlighting issues surrounding accountability and the impact of injury on health.
During closing statements, the defense questioned the thoroughness of the investigation, critiquing the timing of interviews conducted by law enforcement and expressing skepticism towards forensic pathologist Dr. Nabila Haikal’s conclusions. Attorney Kailey Morgan argued that while the incident involved an assault, it did not equate to murder. She emphasized that Rasor was able to stand and seek medical attention immediately after the altercation, a fact she believes undermines the murder charge.
In response, prosecutor Matt Niemann defended the validity of Haikal’s expert testimony, citing her extensive experience in forensic pathology. He pointed out that Rasor, despite his advanced age of 82 at the time of the incident, was physically capable and actively employed up until the assault, which involved being pushed to the ground by McMillian.
Niemann highlighted the stark consequences of that violent act, stating that Rasor ultimately lost his ability to walk unassisted and passed away in November 2022, complications from his injuries being a contributing factor to his death.
Rasor’s prior health conditions, including hypertension and pulmonary emphysema, were acknowledged by both sides. However, the prosecution’s stance was that the assault significantly accelerated the deterioration of Rasor’s health, while the defense questioned whether Rasor would have experienced a fatal heart attack regardless of the incident.
As deliberations approach, the jury will also consider a robbery charge against McMillian, related to the attempt to steal tools from the store. The trial has seen testimonies from Rasor’s family, including insights from his son, who remarked on the older man’s vitality prior to the assault. He recounted how Rasor had engaged in normal family activities and was in good spirits during initial hospital visits after the incident.
The court proceedings have remained closed to cameras, providing a somber atmosphere as the trial unfolds. McMillian chose not to testify in his defense, and his legal team has indicated that they would not call any witnesses to the stand. If found guilty of murder, he faces a potential life sentence.
As the jury prepares to deliberate, the tension within the courtroom reflects the profound implications of the case, raising questions about violence, health, and justice in the community.
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