Jury Began Deliberations in Charlotte Murder Trial
The jury has received the case regarding the 2020 death of Mary Collins following a three-week murder trial.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Sex Crimes
A jury of 15 members has begun deliberations in the murder trial of Lavi Pham and James Salerno. The defendants face charges including first-degree murder, felony murder by rape, and premeditated murder for the 2020 death of 20-year-old Mary Collins.
Why it matters
The case centers on the events inside a Yards at Noda apartment, where Collins was killed after entering the residence. Prosecutors and defense teams concluded their arguments following a three-week trial that featured digital evidence including iPhone videos and text messages.
The jury includes nine women and six men who are weighing charges of first-degree and felony murder. Kelly Lavery, a co-defendant, previously pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and is currently serving a sentence of up to 32 years.
The players
Lavi Pham
Lavi Pham is one of the defendants currently standing trial for the murder of Mary Collins.
James Salerno
James Salerno is a co-defendant in the ongoing murder trial at the Mecklenburg County Courthouse.
Mary Collins
Mary Collins was a 20-year-old woman who died after entering a NoDa apartment in 2020.
Kelly Lavery
Kelly Lavery is a convicted co-defendant who is serving a prison sentence of up to 32 years.
America Diehl
America Diehl is charged with accessory to murder after the fact and concealing a death.
The details
Prosecutors argue the defendants committed murder, while defense attorneys contend the pair is only guilty of concealing a body. The trial, held at the Mecklenburg County Courthouse, follows years of legal proceedings related to the death of the 20-year-old victim.
Timeline
Mary Collins entered the apartment on March 28, 2020.
Kelly Lavery pleaded guilty to murder in 2022.
Jury deliberations began on October 9, 2026.
Legal Context
This trial marks a significant development in the judicial response to the 2020 murder investigation in Charlotte. The proceedings follow a trajectory of multiple prosecutions aimed at holding various individuals accountable for their alleged roles in the incident.
The conclusion of this trial at the Mecklenburg County Courthouse brings a long-standing local murder case closer to a final legal resolution. Residents in the NoDa area may see continued interest in the outcome as the jury delivers its verdict on the defendants.
The takeaway
The jury must now weigh complex digital evidence against the conflicting narratives provided by the prosecution and the defense. This trial underscores the extensive legal process involved in multi-defendant homicide cases occurring within residential communities.
Further reading
For more information on legal proceedings in the area, visit the Charlotte Sex Crimes section.
