Justice Delivered in Cumberland County

The accused, Thomas O’Donnell, left, looks to the jury as a witness describes finding the body of Michael Harding in a vacant home southwest of Burkesville, in September 2026

Guilty verdict after about two hours’ deliberation

Those with experience observing high-profile trials were surprised by the speed of the trial in Cumberland County this week. Thomas O’Donnell was accused of capital murder in the shooting death of Michael Harding, back in September 2022.

The trial began Monday, April 27, with jury selection and by that afternoon had advanced as far as the prosecution calling several witnesses. Friday, the defense had rested, and closing arguments started shortly after 12:30.

By 2:36pm the case was in the hands of the jury. Then, about 4:40 that afternoon, it was announced the jury was ready to return a verdict.

A number of possible verdicts had been presented to the jury, from not guilty through several lesser charges to murder.

Circuit Judge David L. Williams read the jury’s unanimous verdict, guilty of murder.

After some discussion with both the prosecution and defense, the judge excused the jury for the weekend, setting deliberations for sentencing to begin Monday morning.

For more on the case and the trial, see the May 6, 2026, edition of the Cumberland County News.

Photo and story by Greg Wells CCN editor.