A Nevada judge has decided to postpone the murder trial of the only suspect charged in the 1996 killing of rap icon Tupac Shakur. The trial of Duane “Keffe D” Davis, previously scheduled for next month in Las Vegas, has been rescheduled for Feb. 9, 2026. This decision comes after new developments presented by the defense attorneys and the need to ensure a fair trial.
The defense team filed a motion seeking more time, citing the necessity for critical investigative work and witness interviews to guarantee a fair trial for Davis. They claim to have identified witnesses who can testify that Davis was not present at the scene of the shooting.
Davis, an ex-gang leader accused of orchestrating Shakur’s killing near the Las Vegas Strip, has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and has been in jail since his arrest in September 2023. While Davis has admitted to providing the gun used in the drive-by shooting and being in the car, his recent descriptions of orchestrating the shooting were stated to be for entertainment and financial gain.
Defense attorneys argue that Davis should not have been charged due to immunity agreements he allegedly reached with federal and local prosecutors while living in California. However, prosecutors maintain that they have substantial evidence against Davis and that any immunity agreement was limited.
Furthermore, questions have been raised about the circumstances of Shakur's death. Witness information suggests that Shakur was in stable condition after the shooting and died suddenly after being hospitalized for a week. The defense team aims to consult medical and forensic experts to explore potential alternative causes of death.
The judge acknowledged the need for additional preparation in the case to ensure effective assistance of counsel for Davis. Both the prosecution and defense are expected to return to court for a status hearing over the summer to address the pending issues.
