Jury deliberates fate of Greensboro man in former baseball player's death

Brandon Hyde charged with first-degree murder in 2021 shooting of neighbor Jeff Goldbach

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A Guilford County jury began deliberations on Friday to decide the fate of Brandon Hyde, a Greensboro man accused of first-degree murder in the 2021 shotgun slaying of his neighbor, former minor league baseball player Jeff Goldbach.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing debate around self-defense laws and when the use of lethal force is justified, especially in disputes between neighbors. The death of a former professional athlete has also drawn significant local attention.

The details

Hyde's defense attorney, Rossabi, argued that Hyde acted in self-defense of another person when he shot and killed Goldbach, his neighbor. The jury is now tasked with determining whether Hyde's actions were justified or constitute first-degree murder.

  • The jury began deliberations on Friday, February 13, 2026.
  • The shooting incident occurred in 2021.

The players

Brandon Hyde

A Greensboro man accused of first-degree murder in the 2021 shooting death of his neighbor, former minor league baseball player Jeff Goldbach.

Jeff Goldbach

A former minor league baseball player who was shot and killed by his neighbor Brandon Hyde in 2021.

Rossabi

The defense attorney representing Brandon Hyde, who argued that Hyde acted in self-defense of another person when he shot and killed Goldbach.

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What they’re saying

“This is a classic example of self-defense of another,”

— Rossabi, Defense Attorney (greensboro.com)

What’s next

The jury's decision on whether to convict Brandon Hyde of first-degree murder or find him not guilty by reason of self-defense is expected in the coming days.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex and often controversial nature of self-defense laws, as well as the lasting impact the death of a former professional athlete can have on a local community.