WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) - A jury has been seated in the Jonathan Melendez murder trial in Jefferson County Court.

The town of Watertown man is accused of killing 88-year-old Rena Eves by repeatedly striking her with a hammer.

Lawyers for the prosecution and defense will present their opening statements Tuesday morning.

Melendez is charged with second-degree murder, first-degree assault, third-degree criminal possession of a weapon, and tampering with physical evidence.

Eves was found dead on August 27, 2023, in her home at 15615 Eimicke Place in Beaver Meadows Apartments off outer Arsenal Street in the town of Watertown.

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