All eyez on Tupac: Long-awaited trial begins in rapper’s 1996 killing

Opening statements are set to commence on Monday in the trial of Duane "Keffe D" Davis, a 63-year-old man accused of orchestrating the 1996 murder of rapper Tupac Shakur. The trial will delve into the events surrounding a drive-by shooting that took place nearly three decades ago in Las Vegas. If convicted, Davis faces a potential life sentence.

Shakur, a highly influential and versatile rapper, was nominated for six Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2017. His legacy continues to resonate with fans and fellow artists alike. Shakur remains a cultural icon, and his death at the age of 25 left the hip-hop community in shock.

Davis, who pleaded not guilty to the charges, is accused of using a deadly weapon to carry out the murder, with the intent to promote, further, or assist a criminal gang. If found guilty, prosecutors will present evidence aimed at establishing his involvement in the crime.

The trial, which may span several weeks, will involve testimony from 35 to 45 potential witnesses called by the prosecution, while the defense will call only a limited number of witnesses. Members of Shakur's family, including his stepbrother Maurice "Mopreme" Shakur, are expected to be present in court throughout the proceedings. The family acknowledges that the trial may be retraumatizing for them, but they emphasize the importance of being there to support their loved one.

During jury selection, witnesses, including Shakur's friends and collaborators, expressed their hope that the trial will bring the truth to light and provide justice for the late rapper. One such witness, Darryl Harper, a music producer who worked with Shakur at Death Row Records after the 1996 shooting, hopes that the trial will reveal the truth about those involved in the incident.