State v. Grier

SHANGLER, Judge.

The defendant appeals from a conviction for murder in the second degree and a sentence of twenty years imprisonment. The defendant contends that the evidence shows that as a matter of law he acted in self-defense and so was entitled to a judgment of acquittal.

The site of the homicide was a sidewalk contiguous to the Sugar Shack and Mother’s, two separate drink and dance establishments on Main Street. The victim, Van-Dyke, came upon a scene of physical conflict and bitter words between the defendant Grier, a young black man, and Rebecca Ruttan, a young white woman. He…