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Snowball Murder Trial Begins

Jury selection opens in teen's murder case

NBCPhiladelphia.com

Jose Mendez as seen when he was taken into custody.

Jury selection began Tuesday morning for the man who allegedly shot a killed a Feltonville teenager over a snowball fight.

Jose Mendez, 25, was charged with murder for allegedly shooting 15-year-old Teven Rutledge in the head in the 4800 block of D Street.

Rutledge was having a snowball fight with friends during his birthday on Feb. 24, 2008.

A snowball accidentally hit Mendez or a friend (there were differing accounts), according to Philly.com.

Mendez allegedly went home, returned with a gun and shot Rutledge in the side of the head, said police.

Rutledge died a day later. His family chose to donate the teen’s organs in the hope of saving other lives, NBC Philadelphia reported at the time.

Jurors were being picked Tuesday and attorneys for both sides said opening statements could begin Wednesday.