A mistrial was declared in the case of Arizona rancher George Alan Kelly, who was accused of second-degree murder in connection to the death of a Mexican national found fatally shot on his borderland ranch in January 2023. The jury deliberated for days but was unable to reach a verdict, leading to the mistrial.
The case revolved around the death of Mexican national Gabriel Cuen-Buitimea, who was discovered shot to death on Kelly's cattle ranch near Nogales, Arizona. Kelly's defense argued that Cuen-Buitimea was not an unarmed migrant and suggested cartel involvement in the death investigation.
Testimonies during the trial focused on Kelly's actions leading up to the shooting, with the defense claiming he only fired warning shots into the air earlier in the day. Kelly's wife testified about contacting Border Patrol upon spotting armed individuals near their home.
The defense also raised questions about the credibility of witnesses and law enforcement involved in the case. Allegations were made against the Santa Cruz County Sheriff regarding statements made and unauthorized meetings conducted during the investigation.
In closing arguments, the defense asserted that Kelly acted in self-defense when faced with a perceived threat, firing warning shots to protect himself and his wife. The prosecution countered, stating that Kelly escalated the situation by using deadly force against unarmed individuals.
If the jury was not convinced of second-degree murder, they were instructed that Kelly could still be convicted on lesser charges such as manslaughter or aggravated assault.
Kelly, who previously faced a first-degree murder charge, rejected a plea deal offered by prosecutors to reduce the charge to negligent homicide.
The case has garnered national attention due to its implications on self-defense laws and border security issues. The outcome of the trial remains uncertain as legal proceedings may continue in the future.
