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Issiah Ross Trial: Man accused of killing NC teens Lyric Woods, Devin Clark: Live Updates

ByCindy Bae and ABC11 Digital Team WTVD logo
Last updated: Friday, January 23, 2026 10:10PM GMT
Week 2 of Issiah Ross murder trial ends with no verdict

HILLSBOROUGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- The murder trial of Issiah Ross is back in session on Tuesday, Jan. 20.

The trial started on Wednesday, Jan. 14 and has moved rapidly.

Ross is charged in the deaths of Lyric Woods and Devin Clark in Orange County. He is accused of murdering the two teens in September 2022. He was 17 when he allegedly committed the crime; however, he is being tried as an adult.

He has pleaded not guilty. Ross rejected a plea bargain offer on Monday, Jan. 12.

On Wednesday, Jan. 21, Ross took the stand and testified in his own defense.

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Follow the trial via ABC11 Live Blog.

Just started watching, here's week 1 blog to catch you up.

Key Headlines

Here's how the news is developing.
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Jan 28, 2026, 6:33 PM GMT

Court ends with no verdict, will pick up next week

Judge Reese tells the court we need to break for the evening.

She is going over the rules with the jury.

She lays out a plan going forward due to the incoming winter storm. The court will be closed on Monday, and Jurors will be notified when the court resumes.

Download the ABC11 App for breaking news alerts and updates on this trial.

Follow the trial via ABC11 Live Blog.

Just started watching, here's week 1 blog to catch you up.

Jan 28, 2026, 6:33 PM GMT

Jury's note to judge contained 3 requests, here's how she responded

The judge is addressing the jury and going through the requests listed in the note.

There were 3 requests:

  • Transcript of Issiah Ross' testimony. Judge Reese denied the motion, saying, "That is not something that can be done quickly or efficiently."
  • The second request was for Officer Baldwin's report. His physical report was not entered into evidence, and the judge said it cannot be turned over to the jury at this time.
  • Jury asked for a photo of the road that shows placards 1-9, 18. That is state's exhibit 2 and will be turned over to the jury.

They are going to bring jurors, including alternates, back in at 5:10 to give instructions.

Download the ABC11 App for breaking news alerts and updates on this trial.

Follow the trial via ABC11 Live Blog.

Just started watching, here's week 1 blog to catch you up.

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Jan 28, 2026, 6:33 PM GMT

Issiah Ross, his attorneys and prosecutor return to courtroom

Issiah Ross, his attorneys, and prosecutors return to the courtroom around 4:30 p.m.

The bailiff gave the judge a note. She read it and called Ross's attorneys and the prosecutor to the bench for discussion surrounding the note.

Download the ABC11 App for breaking news alerts and updates on this trial.

Follow the trial via ABC11 Live Blog.

Just started watching, here's week 1 blog to catch you up.

Jan 28, 2026, 6:33 PM GMT

Judge addresses weather concerns

The court resumes after recess. At 1:20 p.m., Judge Stephanie Reese informed the jury of a weather plan in case they do not reach a verdict that day.

"There's no pressure," Reese said. "This is a very significant decision you must make, and both parties want to ensure you are not under undue stress due to the weather."

At 1:21 p.m., the jury returned to deliberations, and the court is at ease.

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