UPDATE: Emotional testimony unfolded today in the murder trial of filmmaker and journalist Kevin Epps, who is accused of fatally shooting Marcus Polk on October 24, 2016. Witnesses recounted the familial tensions leading up to the tragic event, with Melina Polk, the victim’s daughter, providing critical insights about the chaotic day.
In a gripping courtroom scene, Melina Polk, now 26, testified about the atmosphere in the home just before the shooting. Present during the incident, she described hearing a heated argument between Epps and Polk, escalating to gunfire. “And after you heard Mr. Epps tell Mr. Polk he couldn’t be in the house, soon after, you heard a gunshot. Is that right?” defense attorney Darlene Comstedt asked. “Yes,” Melina confirmed, her voice trembling.
The trial, which has garnered widespread attention, saw both District Attorney Brooke Jenkins and homicide unit chief Omid Talai present today, underscoring the case’s significance. Supporters of Epps gathered outside the Hall of Justice, urging Jenkins to drop the charges against the 57-year-old journalist known for his work with the San Francisco Bay View newspaper.
Emotions ran high as Epps reacted to his niece’s testimony, stating, “I raised Melina,” as tears streamed down his face. He claimed the shooting has torn his family apart, adding to the emotional weight of the trial.
Testimony continued with Starr Gul, Polk’s former wife, who witnessed the shooting. She described a pleasant weekend before the incident, where Polk was in good spirits, cleaning a bathroom while their children played together. “It was a good mood,” she recalled, contrasting sharply with the violence that would follow.
Gul, who will resume her testimony tomorrow, expressed disbelief at the prosecution’s portrayal of Polk, despite his history of violence and being a registered sex offender. Her account highlighted the complex dynamics of the relationships involved, with Polk often appearing uninvited at Epps’ home.
Before the shooting, tension was palpable. Melina testified that both her mother, Gul, and Epps pleaded with Polk to leave the premises, revealing a history of conflict. “He came at me, he came at me,” Epps reportedly said after the shooting, suggesting a narrative of self-defense.
This trial has been a long time coming. Initially arrested in 2016 but released without charges, Epps faced murder charges three years later. He was recently honored with the Silver Heart award by the Society of Professional Journalists of Northern California, highlighting his contributions to journalism amidst these troubling allegations.
As the trial progresses, the focus on the relationships between the individuals involved continues to unveil a tragic story of familial discord and violence. Jurors listened intently as Gul’s testimony unfolded, revealing critical details that could influence the trial’s outcome.
With more testimony expected tomorrow, the courtroom remains a focal point of attention as the community grapples with the implications of this case. The emotional stakes are high, and both the defense and prosecution prepare for further developments in this ongoing saga of tragedy and loss.
Stay tuned for live updates as this urgent case unfolds.
