Jury Selection Begins in Schenectady Murder Trial

The trial of Raymond Wright Junior for the 2022 murder of 14-year-old Samantha Humphrey is underway.

Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Crime — General

Jury selection began Tuesday in the murder trial of Raymond Wright Junior, who is accused of killing 14-year-old Samantha Humphrey in 2022. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Jury selection started at the Schenectady County Court for the trial of Raymond Wright Junior, who faces a second-degree murder charge. He is accused in the 2022 killing of 14-year-old Samantha Humphrey.

Why it matters

The proceedings move the case into the courtroom phase following the death of the teenager near the Mohawk River. Jurors will now decide the outcome of the high-profile criminal case.

Court officials have summoned 112 potential jurors for the case, with only two selected so far. The final panel will require 12 jurors and three alternates for a trial scheduled to last three weeks.

The players

Raymond Wright Junior

He is the defendant currently facing a charge of second-degree murder in Schenectady County Court.

Samantha Humphrey

She was a 14-year-old victim whose death is the subject of this ongoing murder trial.

The details

Attorneys are screening potential jurors on their exposure to true crime media and their personal views on law enforcement. The charges stem from an alleged argument at the Schenectady Railroad Bridge near Riverside Park in November 2022.

November 2022: Samantha Humphrey disappeared and was allegedly killed.
October 19, 2026: Jury selection began at the Schenectady County Court.
Next three weeks: The trial is expected to last this duration.

Legal Context

The start of the trial marks a major advancement in the long-running legal proceedings following the 2022 disappearance of Samantha Humphrey. This case reflects broader efforts within the local justice system to address violent crimes involving minors.

The start of this trial brings significant activity to the Schenectady County Court, potentially affecting local traffic and courtroom access. Residents should anticipate high levels of public and media attention surrounding the courthouse throughout the next three weeks.

The takeaway

The selection process highlights how courts carefully vet jurors to ensure impartiality in cases influenced by popular media. Potential jurors are encouraged to be prepared for the time commitment required for participation in a three-week criminal trial.