Cousins get own trials in Cedar Rapids slaying

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (AP) — Two cousins will have separate murder trials for a Cedar Rapids slaying.

The Gazette reports that 18-year-old Justin Ross’ attorney had filed a motion to separate his trial from that of his cousin, 20-year-old Donovan Ross, of Hiawatha. The two are charged with first-degree murder in the death of 30-year-old Andre Herron. He was shot on a city street on Nov. 26.

Justin Ross, of Cedar Rapids, is accused of firing the fatal shot, while Donovan Ross is accused of shooting at Herron with the intent to kill.

Donovan Ross’ attorney and the prosecutor didn’t object to separating the trials. The request was granted after a hearing on Wednesday.