News - The high-stakes trial has begun for the man charged in the death of Tupac Shakur.

In a Las Vegas courtroom, a jury composed of six men and ten women is seated for the murder trial of Duane 'Keffe D' Davis, who is accused of orchestrating the 1996 murder of rap icon Tupac Shakur. This long-awaited trial, starting on Monday, holds significant implications for Shakur's family, supporters, and legions of fans who have been seeking answers for nearly three decades. Shakur's murder, a defining event in the history of hip-hop, occurred during a time when rap music was characterized by intense rivalries and gang affiliations. At just 25, the beloved rapper was at the height of his career when he was fatally shot in a drive-by attack on the outskirts of the Las Vegas Strip. The jury, comprised of 16 individuals, will deliberate over approximately a month of testimony, presented by a pool of 35 to 45 witnesses, including potentially powerful testimonies from figures like music mogul Marion 'Suge' Knight. Prosecutors argue that Davis, a former gang leader, orchestrated the infamous shooting. They do not allege he fired the fatal shots but contend he played a critical role in making decisions that led to the murder and allegedly provided the weapon. Charged three years ago, Davis faces the possibility of a life sentence if found guilty. Tupac Shakur, an influential figure in rap history, has sold over 75 million records worldwide with timeless hits like 'California Love' and 'Dear Mama.' Despite his posthumous releases, mystery has continued to surround his death, partly fueled by the absence of any convictions since the incident. The case was revitalized following Davis's own admissions in his 2019 memoir, 'Compton Street Legend,' and numerous media interviews. Despite defense efforts to exclude this book from evidence, claiming it was co-authored and fictionalized, the court is allowing its contents to be presented at trial. Adding to the dramatic nature of the proceedings, Suge Knight—the only living witness present with Shakur during the attack and currently serving a separate 28-year sentence—has expressed his reluctance to testify. Meanwhile, the trial promises to explore the dynamics of a bygone yet pivotal era in music history, with revelations that could finally address the long-standing questions haunting Shakur's fans around the globe.