Michael Davis trial | Jurors start deliberations

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Michael Davis

YOUNGSTOWN — The jury in the aggravated murder and arson case against Michael A. Davis began deliberating at 1:40 p.m. today.

Testimony from one defense witness was heard this morning in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court, followed by closing arguments from Prosecutor Paul J. Gains and James S. Gentile, one of Davis’ defense lawyers.

Davis, 18, of Bennington Avenue is accused of setting fire to 1645 Stewart Ave. around 5:30 a.m. Jan. 23. Six members of the Crawford family perished in the raging inferno.

The prosecution said Davis, angry over theft of his cell phone, set the fire. Also, testimony from the lead detective indicated that Davis confessed.

The defense said the investigation was flawed and gave the names of Davis brother, Scott, and a friend, Anthony Morrow, as those who probably set the fire.

The jury will be sequestered.