After multiple delays and surprise developments, Ali murder trial nears completion

A first-degree murder trial that began in April is coming close to its conclusion after a series of delays and significant developments that have altered the Crown's case.

A first-degree murder trial that began in April is coming close to its conclusion after a series of delays and significant developments that have altered the Crown's case.

Prosecutors allege Ibrahim Ali sexually assaulted and killed a teen girl in Burnaby's Central Park in 2017.

The 13-year-old victim's identity is protected by a publication ban.

On Wednesday, the 91st day of the trial, Sgt. Michael Lim of the RCMP meticulously walked the jury through the collection, retention and testing of all the various exhibits, including DNA samples.

Working with the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team, Lim served as the crime scene manager on the case.

He told the jury how DNA from a discarded cigarette butt was used to build the case against Ali and allowed investigators to obtain a warrant for a sample of the suspect’s blood.

Earlier in the trial, Christine Crossman, a forensic biologist, told the trial she has never seen a DNA match as close as the one between Ali and the samples found on the alleged victim.