Michigan Officer Trial Centers on Fear in Lyoya Shooting

Former Grand Rapids police officer Christopher Schurr testified in his own defense during his second-degree murder trial for the 2022 shooting death of Patrick Lyoya, a Congolese immigrant, following a traffic stop for a mismatched license plate. Schurr told jurors he feared for his life after losing control of his Taser in a prolonged struggle, stating he believed he would not survive if he did not act, and describing himself as 'running on fumes.' Video evidence from multiple angles was played in court, showing Schurr repeatedly demanding Lyoya release the Taser before firing a single fatal shot while Lyoya was pinned facedown. The case has sparked national debate over police use of force and racial justice, with expert witnesses offering conflicting views on whether deadly force was justified. Prosecutors’ use-of-force experts argued lethal force was unnecessary, while defense witnesses contended Schurr was at significant risk once Lyoya gained control of the Taser. Jurors must now decide if Schurr’s actions were a reasonable response under the circumstances.