The trial for one of the men accused of fatally shooting Adolph Thornton Jr., better known as Memphis rapper Young Dolph, in 2021 began Monday. Justin Johnson, who was originally set to go to trial with two other codefendants, emerged as the sole defendant Monday morning. Johnson’s multiple charges include first-degree murder.

Check back here throughout the trial for updates.

3:59 p.m.: Cornelius Smith’s testimony concludes, and he steps down from the witness stand.

3:42 p.m.: Cross-examination continues as defense attorney Luke Evans tries to poke holes in Cornelius Smith’s story, pointing out that he allegedly wrote in a letter to his sister that he didn’t shoot Thornton, aka Young Dolph.

Editor’s note: Hernandez Govan was expected to be part of the trial that started Monday, Sept. 23. He was not present in the courtroom, and the court had not provided an explanation before its Monday lunch recess. For the latest in the trial, follow The Daily Memphian’s live updates.

In 2017, Adolph Thornton Jr. survived a barrage of 100 bullets fired at his car during a visit to Charlotte, North Carolina. In the end, it was 22 gunshot wounds that ended his life. Now two of the men charged in connection to Young Dolph’s death are set to place their lives in the hands of 12 jurors who will decide their fate.

Hernandez Govan is accused of soliciting the hit that cut short the life of the rising rap star on Nov. 17, 2021. Justin Johnson and Cornelius Smith are accused of executing that hit.