As friends and family of Tim Bosma wait for jurors to determine the fates of the two men accused of killing him, several have started to congregate around a table set up outside Hamilton’s John Sopinka courthouse.
Emblazoned with a sign reading “#prayforbosmas”, the table was set up by members of Bosma’s church.
“I know they know that everybody is supporting them, but we wanted to be a visible presence,” said Carol Sybenga of the Christian Reformed Church.
The table has frequently been visited by Hamilton residents who never knew Bosma or his family, but want to leave written messages to show them their support.
“It is very important to give them the strength to carry on,” said Mario Polsinelli.
Several of Bosma’s friends and relatives have attended every day of the court proceedings, which began in early February.
Bosma was killed on the night of May 6, 2013, after taking Smich and Millard to test drive a truck he was selling.
Smich and Millard have each pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder, with each blaming the other for Bosma’s death.
Jurors began their deliberations Monday afternoon, and retired for the night Thursday without coming to a unanimous verdict.
In addition to first-degree murder, jurors have been given the options of convicting Millard and/or Smich of second-degree murder or manslaughter.
