Defense given until next May to submit notice in case of Tops mass shooter

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — The man who killed 10 people and injured three others in the Tops mass shooting was already given 11 life sentences on state charges, but he faces the potential of death in the federal case against him.

Now, a new deadline has been given for his defense team should they choose to pursue an insanity argument. They’ve been given until May 2025 to submit a notice after a judge heard arguments from both the defense and prosecution.

Former Erie County DA talks prosecuting Tops shooter 2 years later

Barbara Massey-Mapps, a family member of one of the victims, said “If you can plan it, execute it, you were fine in that moment. But naturally, the defense is going to try and make a run run run. We understand it, but is it painful? Yeah, we’re tired of it.”

This could result in medical experts being brought in from both sides to argue one way or the other. The shooter’s federal trial is set to take place in September 2025.

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Evan Anstey is an Associated Press Award, JANY Award and Emmy-nominated digital producer who has been part of the News 4 team since 2015. See more of his work here and follow him on Twitter.

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