Former Grand Rapids Police officer Christopher Schurr testified in his defense during his second-degree murder trial, claiming he feared for his life when he fatally shot Patrick Lyoya in the head. The incident occurred after a traffic stop escalated into a physical struggle, during which Schurr lost control of his Taser. Schurr asserted that using deadly force was necessary to protect himself, as he believed Lyoya would use the Taser against him. The prosecution highlighted potential inconsistencies in Schurr's testimony and questioned the necessity of lethal force, as Schurr was on top of Lyoya at the time of the shooting. The trial has featured conflicting expert testimonies regarding the appropriateness of Schurr's actions, with use-of-force experts divided on whether the shooting was justified.

Christopher Schurr, a former Michigan police officer, testified that he feared for his life after losing control of his Taser during a struggle with Patrick Lyoya, leading him to fatally shoot Lyoya in the head. Schurr emphasized that he was 'running on fumes' and believed he had to act to ensure his safety.

The confrontation began with a traffic stop due to Lyoya driving a car with a mismatched license plate. After failing to produce a driver's license, Lyoya fled, prompting Schurr to chase and ultimately engage in a physical struggle with him.

Video evidence from a witness, Schurr's body camera, and a police car captured the intense altercation that lasted over two minutes, showing Schurr repeatedly demanding Lyoya stop resisting and give up the Taser.

Prosecutor Chris Becker challenged Schurr's testimony by highlighting inconsistencies with previous statements and questioning the necessity of lethal force, noting that Schurr was on top of Lyoya and had the upper hand in the struggle.

The trial has seen conflicting opinions from expert witnesses, with use-of-force experts for the prosecution arguing that deadly force was not required, while defense witnesses, including senior Grand Rapids officers, contended that Schurr faced significant danger.

The shooting and subsequent release of video footage by the police chief caused public outrage, leading to Schurr's dismissal from the police force. His firing was based on video evidence, a state police investigation, and interviews with internal investigators.

Supporters of Schurr demonstrated outside the courthouse, while inside, both Schurr's and Lyoya's families attended the trial, which has focused on whether Schurr's fear for his life justified the use of lethal force.