O.J. Simpson Murder Trial: 30 Years Later

Los Angeles, CA – October 3, 2025 marks 30 years since O.J. Simpson was acquitted of the murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldman. The verdict, delivered on October 3, 1995, captivated a nation and sparked intense discussions around race, celebrity, and the justice system.

The trial lasted 473 days and cost the city of Los Angeles over $10 million. It was marked by dramatic elements, including the infamous low-speed chase in a white Ford Bronco. This chase captivated 95 million viewers, reflecting the case’s extraordinary media coverage.

On the night of June 12, 1994, Simpson was in Los Angeles but took a flight to Chicago after the killings. He was later asked to surrender, but instead fled, leading to a police chase. Following his arrest, the trial showcased a defense strategy that included the remark from Johnnie Cochran, ‘If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit,’ referencing the infamous glove that didn’t fit Simpson during the demonstration.

Despite the acquittal, a civil court found Simpson liable for wrongful death in 1997, ordering him to pay $33.5 million to the victims’ families. In 2008, Simpson faced legal troubles again, this time for armed robbery. He served nine years in prison before his release in 2017.

The O.J. Simpson trial left a lasting impact on American society, influencing how legal proceedings are covered by media and highlighting ongoing issues around race and justice that continue to resonate today.

The case remains a pivotal point in modern American history, reflecting deep societal divides and the intersection of fame and crime.