The trial by jury over the fatal stabbing of Fawaz Najem in Marsalforn has entered its 13th day, with proceedings now moving into a new phase after the prosecution formally closed its witnesses and defence started addressing the jury.
Over the weekend, jurors were taken to the site where the incident occurred, giving them a clearer, firsthand understanding of the location at the centre of the case.
In court, Maher Aljasem continues to plead not guilty, maintaining that he acted in self-defence during what he claims was a group assault.
Throughout the past days, jurors heard from multiple witnesses, including an eyewitness who described watching the people from his balcony. He recounted how a confrontation escalated into violence, eventually moving into the street where Najem fell to his knees and was dragged along the pavement. He also reported seeing individuals carrying objects and a vehicle leaving the scene shortly after.
Medical experts testified that Najem was taken to Gozo General Hospital unresponsive, suffering from multiple injuries, including a fatal stab wound to the chest and serious head trauma. Attempts to revive him were unsuccessful, with the cause of death identified as hypovolemic shock due to severe blood loss.
Police testimony highlighted inconsistencies in witness accounts. Some individuals claimed to have seen a man carrying a knife entering a garage before the victim emerged injured, while others described a wider brawl involving several people.
Police Inspector Wayne Camilleri detailed the early stages of the investigation, explaining that upon arrival an inquiring magistrate was already on site at a residence known as "Maria," believed to be the crime scene. The area contained scattered stones and pieces of wood thought to have been used during the fight.
The court also heard that a nearby bar owner had seen a group of around six individuals carrying what appeared to be weapons shortly before the incident, raising concerns that violence was imminent.
Najem had already been transported to hospital by three Syrian nationals in a white BMW, and investigators were informed he may have died on the way.
According to Inspector Camilleri, the accused told police that an earlier argument escalated into violence, during which he was allegedly assaulted by a group. He claimed he picked up a knife that had fallen to the ground and used it to defend himself, stating he may have struck someone but could not identify who.
Despite extensive searches, including of nearby rooftops, the alleged murder weapon has never been recovered.
An autopsy confirmed that Najem died from a stab wound inflicted by a sharp instrument that penetrated near the heart, causing rapid and fatal blood loss.
The accused later gave a second statement without consulting a lawyer, again claiming self-defence and expressing concern for his safety.
With the prosecution, led by Angele Vella and Cynthia Tomasuolo on behalf of the Attorney General, now having concluded the presentation of their witnesses, the trial is expected to proceed with the defence phase.
The accused is represented by Peter Fenech, Elena Fenech and Amy Zahra, while Franco Debono and Matthew Xuerebare appearing on behalf of the victim's family.
The case continues before Judge Neville Camilleri.