People v. Martin

Defendant’s jury conviction of second-degree murder1 in Detroit Recorder’s Court was affirmed by the Court of Appeals and we granted leave to appeal. The principal question is whether reversible error occurred where the trial court failed to grant a juror’s request for clarification regarding the charge of manslaughter and instructions relating to self-defense. We answer affirmatively.

Conflicting testimony was introduced at trial regarding the circumstances surrounding a shooting incident resulting in the death of Herman Willis. Defendant stated he was walking on Peterboro Street when he was…