New trial date set for teen accused in deadly Orlando Halloween shooting

Trial date set for teen accused in deadly Orlando Halloween shooting

A new trial date has been scheduled for a teenager accused of killing two people during a Halloween block party in Orlando in 2024. The case had been delayed earlier this year but is now moving forward after a judge reviewed key filings.

ORLANDO, Fla. - A new trial date has been scheduled for a teenager accused of killing two people during a Halloween block party in Orlando in 2024. 

The case had been delayed earlier this year but is now moving forward after a judge reviewed key filings.

What we know:

Jalen Edgar is charged in connection with the shooting that left two people dead during a crowded Halloween celebration.

A judge has now placed the case back on the trial calendar. Jury selection is scheduled to begin Aug. 17.

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The trial had previously been postponed in January after Edgar sought to pursue a temporary insanity defense.

What we don't know:

It remains unclear how long the trial is expected to last or whether additional delays could occur.

Details about how the defense will present its insanity claim have not been fully outlined in court.

Timeline:

The shooting happened during a Halloween block party in 2024, drawing widespread attention due to the large crowd.

Families announce lawsuit after deadly Halloween shooting in Orlando

The families of two men killed when an alleged teenage gunman opened fire on crowds celebrating Halloween in downtown Orlando last year announced Tuesday their intention to file a lawsuit this month. During a joint news conference Tuesday morning, the parents of 19-year-old Timothy Schmidt Jr. and 25-year-old Tyrek Hill spoke alongside attorneys Michael Haggard and Douglas McCarron, who represent victims of gun violence. They called for justice, accountability, and systemic change to prevent future tragedies.

The case was delayed to January 2026 after the defense requested time to pursue a temporary insanity argument.

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After reviewing related documents, the judge has now cleared the case to proceed, setting an August 2026 jury selection date.

What's next:

Prosecutors have indicated they are preparing for trial, with multiple witnesses expected to testify.