Trial of accused trooper-killer moved to Catawba County

Jason Sandford

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

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WSPA story here:

The trial for a man charged with killing a North Carolina State Trooper has been moved to Catawba County.

Superior Court Judge Nathaniel Poovey says the trial is set to begin October 12.

Investigators say Edwardo Wong murdered Trooper Shawn Blanton in June 2008 during a traffic stop near Canton.

Attorneys for Wong say the publicity of the incident will prevent him from getting a fair trial in Haywood County.

Prosecutors say they will seek the death penalty.