WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) - As the murder trial of Johnathan Melendez enters its second week in Jefferson County Court, 7 News had the chance to speak to the family of the victim.

Week 2 of the trial opened with autopsy photos of Rena Eves, the 88-year-old woman Melendez stands accused of killing with a hammer in her town of Watertown home in 2023. Dr. Katrina Monday with the Onondaga County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed Eves’ head injuries were consistent with wounds inflicted using a hammer.

When court broke for lunch, we had a chance to speak with Eves’ family, who have been attending the trial.

“I’m happy that the process has started. It’s been a long two years to get here, but it’s definitely intense at moments,” said Sarena Eves, Rena Eves’ granddaughter.

“I feel that ther

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