Final Newark Schoolyard Killing Trial Heads to Jury

Closing arguments have concluded in the final trial stemming from the murders of three college friends in a Newark schoolyard.

Gerardo Gomez was one of six men and boys charged in the 2007 slayings of Dashon Harvey, Iofemi Hightower and Terrance "T.J." Aeriel.

Gomez turned 15 on the night of the murders. His attorney has contended that he was present at the attack but played no part in it.

But prosecutors presented a confessed accomplice who said Gomez took part in the robbery that preceded the murders and even pointed a gun at the victims that jammed. Five other defendants have pleaded guilty or been convicted.

The Star-Ledger of Newark reports the courthouse is closed Tuesday for Election Day, so jury deliberations may begin Wednesday.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)