Jury Sees Surveillance Video in Livonia Stabbing Trial as Prosecution Rests

Jurors in the trial of Spencer Krusell watched surveillance video of the confrontation that preceded the fatal stabbing of Nicholos Hatcher, 34, on Tuesday, the same day prosecutors rested their case.

Krusell faces a charge of second-degree murder in Hatcher's death. His defense team contends that the stabbing was an act of self-defense.

The deadly encounter took place May 28, 2026, near Middlebelt Road and West Chicago Street in Livonia. It followed the theft of Hatcher's backpack from a plasma center by another man, Scott Harrington. Hatcher then followed the men and confronted them about the stolen bag.

Jurors were shown doorbell camera footage that captured blurry figures along with audio of the confrontation. In the video, Hatcher can be heard yelling at the men about his backpack and is seen punching them before Krusell stabbed him.

Prosecutors argue that Krusell's actions were not justified. His defense attorney says Krusell feared for his safety and acted in self-defense.

Several Livonia police officers took the stand Tuesday to describe the investigation. Detective Hannah Nouham testified that investigators collected video footage of the altercation. Detective David James testified that he arrested Krusell, and he identified him in the courtroom.

Jurors also heard from Jaylyn Davis, a friend of Hatcher who was on the phone with him while he followed the men. "I could hear him telling them to give him his book bag back," Davis testified. She became emotional after watching video showing Hatcher's final moments.

Harrington was prosecuted separately. He pleaded guilty to charges of larceny and receiving and concealing stolen property, and he was sentenced to two years of probation.

With the prosecution's case complete, the defense plans to call Krusell to the witness stand Wednesday morning.