The attorney of a former UA student whose eye was shot out by police during the riot on North Fourth Avenue two years ago said the review of his client's claim could last up to three weeks.

Jeff Knepper, 21, field suit against the City of Tucson after he was hit in the eye with a lead-pellet-filled beanbag fired from a Tucson Police Department shotgun. The event occurred during the riot following UA's April 2, 2001, loss to Duke in the NCAA men's basketball championship game.

Knepper's attorney, Carl Piccarreta, said it's too soon to comment on the outcome of the trial, but predicted that the proceedings will most likely end May 2.

"Jeff has a good attitude. He is prepared if the verdict comes out either way," Piccarreta said. "He's acting beyond his age."

The trial began Tuesday after Tucson attorney Daryl Audilett declined to settle out of court.

Knepper originally filed a $3 million claim against the city in July 2001.

The round that hit him in the eye was one of about 500 fired by police at the crowd on North Fourth Avenue during the riot, in which several cars were overturned, a trailer was set on fire and nearby businesses were vandalized.

Yesterday's session included the conclusion of three Tucson Police Department detectives' depositions, including that of Det. Michael Mare, who allegedly fired the first round that hit Knepper.

Mare said in Wednesday's proceedings that he was not responsible for firing the round that struck Knepper in the eye.

Piccarreta also called expert witness Luis Salseda to testify and read a deposition from Knepper's friend, who witnessed the shooting.

The proceedings will resume at 9 a.m. tomorrow in the courtroom of Superior Court Judge Christopher Browning, and will continue Tuesday through Friday until the conclusion of the trial.

Knepper could not be reached for comment. Piccarreta said he probably will not speak until after a verdict is reached.