The trial of Francis Nana, the taxi driver accused in connection with the death of Liberia National Police officer Mark D. Bracewell, has officially commenced at Criminal Court “A” at the Temple of Justice in Monrovia. Nana entered a not guilty plea after the indictment was read during Monday’s proceedings.
The case, which has drawn public attention due to the circumstances surrounding the officer’s death, is now moving into the jury selection phase. Court officials confirmed that the process is ongoing, with additional jurors expected to be selected when proceedings resume on Wednesday.
Earlier during the hearing, presiding Judge Willie rejected a motion filed by the defense requesting that the trial be moved خارج Montserrado County. Defense lawyer Jeremiah Samuel Dugbo I argued that extensive media coverage could influence potential jurors, referencing a similar application made in the Capitol Building arson case where concerns were raised about public perception in Montserrado.
Prosecutors opposed the request, insisting that the case should remain within the jurisdiction where the incident occurred. They emphasized that the matter involves the alleged killing of a police officer while performing official duties, underscoring the seriousness of the charges.
In his ruling, Judge Willie determined that the defense had not provided adequate justification to warrant a change of venue, allowing the trial to proceed in Montserrado County.
According to police accounts, the incident dates back to the early hours of September 29, 2025, at a checkpoint near the Gabriel Tucker Bridge in central Monrovia. Officers were reportedly conducting routine security checks when Nana, driving a yellow Nissan Almera, allegedly failed to stop and instead accelerated toward the checkpoint.
Investigators allege that Officer Bracewell attempted to intervene and ended up on the vehicle’s hood as the situation escalated. Nana is accused of continuing at speed before crashing into a concrete barrier, an impact that resulted in fatal injuries to the officer.
Following the crash, authorities say Nana fled the scene but was later captured by private security personnel identified as Joseph Doe and Amos Kumeh.
During initial questioning, Nana reportedly claimed that he panicked and did not realize the officer was still on the vehicle. He also suggested that the car experienced brake failure. However, a mechanical assessment later concluded that the vehicle’s braking system was in proper working condition.
The trial continues as the court proceeds with jury selection and prepares to hear further arguments in what is expected to be a closely watched case.
