Charlotte, N.C. — Deliberations have commenced in the trial of Adonis Smith, who stands accused in the 2019 fatal shooting of Kendal Crank, a 27-year-old mother from Charlotte. Crank was tragically killed by a stray bullet while driving to her job in March of that year, amid an altercation in which Smith and others were allegedly engaged.
The case hinges on an incident where gunfire was exchanged between multiple parties, involving Smith along with Tychicus Dobie and Marquis Smith, both of whom have been linked to Crank’s death. The jury is tasked with navigating complex charges including first-degree murder, second-degree murder, voluntary and involuntary manslaughter, and discharging a weapon into an occupied vehicle.
On the afternoon of Monday, the jury requested guidance from the judge concerning the completion of their verdict sheet and sought clarification on the proceedings should they fail to reach a unanimous decision. Video evidence pertinent to the shootout was also reviewed by the jury as part of their assessment.
During the trial’s emotional testimonies, defense attorney Justin Olsinski portrayed his client as a victim of circumstance, forced to respond to sudden violence. He highlighted the immediate peril Smith faced, noting his reactive decision to engage based on instinct. In contrast, the prosecution presented Smith as the instigator whose reckless actions resulted in the fatal shooting of Crank.
Special Deputy Attorney General Arneatha James critiqued Smith’s post-incident demeanor, observing that he failed to display overt emotional distress upon learning of the unintended consequences of his actions. This point was stressed to challenge the defense’s portrayal of Smith’s mindset and intentions at the time of the shooting.
Adding to his defense, Smith testified on Friday, offering his narrative of the day’s events. He recounted the shock he experienced upon realizing that his actions had led to the death of an innocent bystander. According to his testimony, he was en route to a music video shoot when he found himself amidst the shootout, claiming his response was an act of self-defense.
The defense also questioned the integrity of the police investigation into the shooting, pointing out alleged failures to secure and analyze crucial evidence properly, and follow-up adequately with important witnesses.
In their closing statement, the defense implored the jury to consider the rapid, high-pressure environment Smith was thrust into, and to recognize his response as a natural human instinct when confronted unexpectedly with life-threatening danger.
As this high-stakes trial progresses, the community watches closely, hoping for justice for Kendal Crank and clarity on the events that led to her untimely death.
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