More witnesses take the stand in Samantha Woll’s murder trial

(WXYZ) — Testimony continued today in a downtown Detroit courtroom in the slaying of downtown synagogue leader Samantha Woll.

This afternoon, prosecutors called key witnesses to paint a picture of the events surrounding Woll’s brutal stabbing death.

I have been following this case closely and today, it has included more efforts by the defense to create doubt that the defendant Michael Jackson Bolanos is responsible.

Michigan State Police investigator Alex Martinez told the court he found no evidence to suggest Woll’s ex-boyfriend was behind her stabbing.

VIDEO: Watch some of Samantha Woll’s ex-boyfriend’s testimony:

Samantha Woll’s ex-boyfriend testifies at murder trial

This is despite the fact that Woll’s ex-boyfriend allegedly admitted to the killing before later telling police that his memory had been erased by the use of antidepressants and cannabis and nerve treatments at the Mayo Clinic.

However, Martinez pointed out that someone had slashed tires outside Woll’s Lafayette Park home around the time she was killed.

“We are investigating a murder and a stabbing and it is relevant that there is a vehicle outside with slashed tyres,” he said.

VIDEO: Defense makes opening statement in Samantha Woll murder trial

Defense gives opening statement in Samantha Woll murder trial

Prosecutors in court today also showed a video of a search of Bolanos’ home.

And expert witness Detroit Police Detective Sarah Markel, who examined Woll’s phone, saying around the time of her death: “At 1:29 it was unlocked, the phone was unlocked. Then it was blocked at 1:35 am About 6 minutes.”

Investigators told the court they witnessed a large amount of blood in Woll’s home, but Woll’s girlfriend previously testified she had no safety concerns before this murder.

VIDEO: Prosecutors make opening statement in Samantha Woll murder trial

Prosecutors give opening statement in Samantha Woll murder trial

Another prosecution witness, also on the stand, was grilled by the defense, dismissing the significance of a club or bat being found in Bolanos’ possession in his vehicle.

“You indicated that this was a club or bat that could be used for sports, correct?” asked the defense attorney.

“I guess so,” said Eugene Fitzhugh, an evidence technician with the Detroit Police Department.

Markel also told the court that after the murder, the defendant searched his phone for information on how to get a passport that same day, suggesting he might leave town.

More testimony resumes Monday, and we’ll be there to bring you the latest developments in the case.