HILLSBOROUGH, N.C. — The fate of Terry McMillian Jr., accused of fatally injuring Home Depot employee Gary Rasor, now rests in the hands of a jury following the conclusion of the murder trial. This significant case gained attention after Rasor was involved in a confrontation at a Home Depot store in October 2022, which resulted in his hospitalization and ultimately his death.
After a series of testimonies and deliberations, the court heard closing arguments from both sides on Tuesday. The jury was briefed on legal instructions that will guide their decision-making process as they enter deliberations.
In her closing remarks, defense attorney Kailey Morgan criticized the investigative process, alleging that inconsistencies and generalizations plagued the case. She emphasized that the video evidence from the incident, while depicting an assault, did not substantiate a murder charge. Morgan pointed out that following the altercation, the 82-year-old Rasor managed to walk to the hospital without immediate life-threatening injuries.
The prosecution, represented by attorney John Niemann, countered the defense’s narrative by underscoring the severity of Rasor’s injuries following the push, which ultimately led to his demise on November 30, 2022. Niemann acknowledged Rasor’s age and pre-existing health issues but argued that these should not detract from McMillian’s culpability. He claimed the evidence shows a clear direct linkage between McMillian’s actions and Rasor’s tragic outcome.
Forensic pathologist Dr. Nabila Haikal, who testified during the trial, identified the cause of death as complications stemming from blunt force trauma, adding that Rasor’s existing ailments exacerbated the situation. During cross-examination, the defense questioned Haikal’s methodology and findings, specifically regarding her assessment of Rasor’s medical condition at the time of the incident. While the defense sought to portray Rasor’s health in a light that would absolve McMillian, the prosecution maintained that the injuries from the fall were directly responsible for Rasor’s decline.
As the jury processes the arguments, they are also tasked with considering a separate robbery charge against McMillian related to the incident. Expanding on the details leading to the altercation, investigators revealed that Rasor attempted to intervene when McMillian allegedly attempted to steal tools from the store.
McMillian, who declined to testify, is facing serious consequences if convicted. The charges include first-degree murder and robbery, which could result in a life sentence in prison. The proceedings have unfolded with no cameras allowed, ensuring the courtroom dynamics remain intimate and focused on the unfolding legal drama.
With testimonies concluded and the defense’s motions denied, the jurors are now preparing to render a verdict, reflecting the gravity of the case that has captivated the local community and raised questions about accountability in violent encounters involving vulnerable individuals.