Following a quick jury selection process, the murder and attempted murder trial of Michael Schweitzer is set to begin Tuesday in Stratford.
Schweitzer is accused of shooting 17-yearold Nicole Wagler, who died, and his roommate Tyler Baker in December 2012, at a property in Milverton.
Ever since, the 26-year-old has been in custody – and maintained his innocence.
While being arraigned in court Monday morning, Schweitzer said ‘not guilty’ for each of the charges.
“He’s been looking forward to this trial … so he can clear his name,” defence lawyer Phillip Millar told reporters after the day’s proceedings ended.
“I think it’s going to be a fascinating trial. I think what a lot of people think happened is going to come under a lot of scrutiny.”
The trial is scheduled to last for approximately three weeks.
It is anticipated that the Crown will call about 15 people to testify, while Millar said he “may have two to five witnesses.”
Schweitzer is not expected to take the stand.
About 100 potential jurors reported to the courthouse Monday to take part in the selection process.
Several of them were dismissed early in the day, after informing the judge of connections to the families of one or more people involved in the case.
The trial gets underway Tuesday morning with an opening statement from the Crown attorney.
