Troopers involved in boy’s shooting to testify at inquest
Two state troopers involved in the shooting death of 12-year-old Michael Ellerbe, who was shot while fleeing from a wrecked stolen vehicle, are listed as witnesses in Monday’s coroner’s inquest. Troopers Samuel Nassan and Juan Curry, who have been on administrative assignments at the Uniontown barracks since the incident, are among the list of witnesses, investigators and experts slated to testify before a coroner’s jury.
Fayette County Coroner Phillip E. Reilly is conducting the inquest in which a panel of six jurors and two alternates will be asked to rule on whether or not the shooting was justifiable, and make recommendations to the state police, District Attorney Nancy Vernon or to the governor’s office.
Attorney Joel Sansone, who is representing the Ellerbe family, and attorneys representing the two troopers will also be permitted to question those who testify.
National civil rights attorney Geoffrey Fieger is also working for Ellerbe’s family, but is not expected to attend the inquest.
Allegheny County Coroner Dr. Cyril Wecht will testify about the findings of the autopsy, which he performed, and investigating officers from the Uniontown and Washington barracks will summarize their investigation.
State police experts will review ballistic information as well as photographs and measurements from the scene of the shooting.
After a scheduled lunch break, investigating officers will summarize witness statements, and Wade Alan Friend Sr., whose stolen 1986 Ford Bronco II was involved in the incident, is scheduled to testify.
Nassan, who fired the fatal shot, and Curry are scheduled to testify later in the afternoon, but they may decline to testify. Investigators may present their statements. Investigators will present statements from some witnesses and other witnesses are scheduled to testify.
Among the expert witnesses is state police Sgt. Clifford Jobe Jr. who will explain police training, procedures and guidelines.
After a possible dinner break, the attorneys and Reilly have opportunities to summarize the day’s testimony.
Jury deliberations will then begin. The panel will be asked to determine the cause and manner of death and identify any special circumstances surrounding the incident.