Replay live coverage: Closing arguments in Tajh Ross Murder Trial

Closing arguments start at 9 a.m. Tuesday in the murder trial of Tajh Ross, 20, who is accused of shooting and killing Latasha Roundtree, 19, of Cedar Rapids,  Sept. 22, 2012.

Join Gazette Reporter Trish Mehaffey's  live coverage from the courtroom in the bench or non-jury  trial. Followers can provide comments and ask questions during the trial.    

Ross, charged with first-degree murder, is accused of shooting Roundtree as she was a passenger in a car, heading to a party that night. He also faces charges of intimidation with a dangerous weapon, conspiracy to commit a forcible felony and going armed with intent. According to the prosecution, Ross armed himself with a  .40 caliber handgun and fired into the car. Four other defendants who have pleaded to lesser charges in this case testified against Ross during the two week trial.   

Ross testified last Friday and claimed he fired the gun but didn't intentionally shot at the car or Roundtree. He claimed he fired the shot to protect his friend, Liban Muhidin, one of the defendants convicted for his part in the crime.

Sixth Judicial District Judge Robert Sosalla will provide a written verdict in the case, which may not be filed for several weeks.