Trial underway for man accused of strangling two people in 2010

HOUSTON – Two Houston families that have been waiting several years for justice could soon have closure.

The trial of 55-year-old Lucky Ward, who is accused of strangling victims, has started.

Ward is charged with capital murder in the deaths of 52-year-old Reita Long and Carlos Rodriguez. Officials said both victims were found dead at separate locations, within a few weeks of each other in September 2010.

If Ward is convicted, he could face a life sentence without parole or the death penalty.

Ward has also been linked to the April 1985 slaying of Birdell Louis in Midtown, but police said there was not enough evidence to file charges against him in connection with the case.