Burns trial closes with focus on crowbar as deadly weapon

Burns trial closes with focus on crowbar as deadly weapon

WARREN

In closing arguments in the murder trial of Michael Burns, the defense and prosecution focused on whether a crowbar left behind during a break-in should be considered a deadly weapon.

Chris Becker, assistant Trumbull County prosecutor, closed his statement by telling jurors: “If you don’t think this crowbar is a deadly weapon, then by all means acquit him and give it back to him.”

Ronald Yarwood, attorney for Burns, conversely said Becker can imagine the ways the crowbar could have been used against a Niles homeowner, but there is no evidence that it was used as a weapon.

The jury will begin deliberations later this morning in Trumbull County Common Pleas Court.

Burns is one of four people charged with murder, involuntary manslaughter and attempted aggravated burglary. Burns admitted to trying to break into a home on Niles Cortland Road early July 12, which led to an accomplice being shot to death by the homeowner.