CHICAGO (AP) — Cook County prosecutors say a man convicted in 1996 of a fire that killed two people should get a new trial because advances in science have invalidated previous evidence.
The Chicago Tribune reports that Adam Gray is serving a mandatory sentence of life without parole. Prosecutors from Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez’s Conviction Integrity Unit suggested a new trial for him in recently filed court papers.
The prosecutors say dramatic advancements in fire science have “partially invalidated” expert testimony that was crucial to his conviction.
Fire scientist John Lentini determined that petroleum distillate found in a milk jug near the scene was different than the substance in wood at the scene. He says neither was an effective accelerant.
One of Gray’s lawyers says she’s pleased that prosecutors had agreed to grant Gray a new trial.
