Trial for Death of Peterson's 2-Year-Old Son Wrapping up

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — The trial of a South Dakota man accused of killing the 2-year-old son of Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson is wrapping up.

Twenty-nine-year-old Joseph Patterson has pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder and other charges in the October 2013 death of Tyrese Robert Ruffin, who was the son of his girlfriend and Peterson.

Patterson's trial is in its second week. The state rested its case Monday. The Argus Leader reports the defense is expected to call its final witnesses Thursday.

The main question jurors must answer is whether the death of Tyrese was an accident. Investigators allege that Patterson assaulted Tyrese while they were alone in an apartment. Patterson says Tyrese choked on a fruit snack.

Patterson faces a mandatory life prison sentence if convicted of second-degree murder.

Source: Trial for Death of Adrian Peterson’s 2-Year-Old Son Wrapping up