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Minneapolis (KROC AM News) - Opening statements are scheduled Monday in the murder/manslaughter trial of Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis cop accused of causing the death of George Floyd.

Activists Rally At Minnesota State Capitol Ahead Of Trial Of Derek Chauvin
ST PAUL, MN - MARCH 19: Children help carry a portrait of George Floyd outside the Minnesota State Capitol building as activists gather on March 19, 2021 in St Paul, Minnesota. This morning Judge Peter Cahill rejected motions for change of venue and continuance by the defense of former Minneapolis Police officer Derek Chauvin, who is accused of killing George Floyd last May. (Photo by Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)
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Live coverage of the opening statements on News-Talk 1340 KROC AM/96.9FM can be heard on the KROC News website and with the KROC News mobile app, starting at 8:50 am Monday. You can also watch the live video feed of the Chauvin trial here.

Here's how the story began.

Timeline: George Floyd's Death and Unrest in Minneapolis, Minnesota

It was late afternoon on Memorial Day, 2020 and many Minnesotans had observed the normally active weekend hunkered down because of the growing pandemic.

George Floyd drove to a grocery store in Minneapolis and bought some cigarettes. He was accused by employees of making the purchase with a counterfeit $20 bill and police were called. Floyd was still there in his vehicle when two officers arrived. About 10 minutes later, Chauvin and another officer showed up and the situation began to escalate. Chauvin began kneeling on Floyd's neck as he was facedown on the street. Despite repeated pleas from Floyd and a growing crowd of bystanders to remove his knee, Chauvin continued as if frozen in position with no facial expression. 

After more than 8 minutes, Chauvin finally stood up and Floyd had become unresponsive. An ambulance was called and a short while later, it was reported Floyd was dead.

A video of the incident slowly spread on social media around the state, the country and the world. Viewers literally watched a man slowly die, repeating "I can't breathe." 

The now historic response began the following day.

KEEP READING: See changes enacted since George Floyd’s death

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