The murder trial begins today for a Grundy Center man accused of killing an Iowa State Trooper in a standoff last year.

Forty-two-year-old Michael Lang is accused of shooting Sergeant Jim Smith during a standoff that occurred inside Lang’s Grundy Center home in April of 2021.

Lang is charged with Murder, Attempted Murder, and Assaulting a Police Officer.

The trial was moved to Hamilton County in January on a change of venue due to extensive media coverage and public interest in the case.

Jury selection will begin today followed by opening statements from attorneys.

Several witnesses will take the stand during the trial that will likely continue into next week.