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Man accused of running over Toronto police officer expected to continue testifying – Winnipeg Free Press

Posted on by Neons

TORONTO – A man accused of robbing a Toronto police officer nearly three years ago is expected to continue testifying in court today.

Umar Zamir has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder in the death of Det. Const. Jeffrey Northrup died on July 2, 2021 after being hit by a car in an underground parking lot.

During his first appearance on the stand Tuesday, Zamir described the events that led to his encounter with police that night.

Umar Zamir, left to right, defense attorneys Alexandra Heine, Nader Hassan, Crown attorney Karen Simon are shown in this courtroom as Judge Ann Molloy and members of the jury look on Thursday, March 21, 2024 in Toronto.
Umar Zamir, left to right, defense attorneys Alexandra Heine, Nader Hassan, Crown attorney Karen Simon are shown in this courtroom as Judge Ann Molloy and members of the jury look on Thursday, March 21, 2024 in Toronto.

He recalled coming to downtown Toronto with his pregnant wife and young son because they wanted to take part in the Canada Day festivities.

The court heard Northrup and his partner – both plainclothes – were investigating the stabbing when they entered a garage below Toronto City Hall. Zamir was not involved in the stabbing.

Crown prosecutors say Zamir chose to make a series of maneuvers with his car that led to Northrup's death, but the defense says the officer's death was a tragic accident.