Man claims self-defense in trial over fatal stabbing linked to drug debt

A 20-year-old man, Brandon Gavin, claims he stabbed 19-year-old Marius Mamaliga in self-defense due to a drug debt. Gavin has pleaded not guilty to murder in the Central Criminal Court, where the incident was described as lasting just 14 seconds. On February 23, 2023, Gavin allegedly entered Mamaliga's car and stabbed him in the neck. Mamaliga died three days later from his injuries. The prosecution argues that Gavin intended to kill or seriously harm Mamaliga. CCTV footage reportedly shows Gavin leaving home shortly before the attack. He later told police he acted in self-defense because he feared for his life over a €2,500 drug debt. A knife linked to the incident was recovered by police. The trial continues.