TORONTO - Opening statements are expected today in the trial of a Toronto police officer charged in connection with the shooting death of a teenager on a streetcar two years ago.

Const. James Forcillo is charged with second-degree murder and attempted murder in the death of 18-year-old Sammy Yatim.

Forcillo has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.

Yatim was shot and killed on an empty streetcar on July 27, 2013 - an incident captured on surveillance and cellphone video on which nine shots can be heard following shouted commands to drop a knife.

Forcillo, who has been free on bail, has been working at Toronto Crimestoppers in an administrative role.

His lawyer has said his client is eager to tell his side of the story at trial.