Courts / Dublin / Report
Eyewitness tells murder trial of moment 'calm and collected' assailant stabbed friend
Summary
During the murder trial of Brandon Gavin, an eyewitness described a brief, seconds‑long episode in which Gavin, described as "calm and collected," entered the back seat of a black Audi, slowly drew a knife and stabbed Marius Mamaliga on the left side of his neck before fleeing. The witness, David Octavian, testified that he saw Mamaliga's hand on his throat, that he called an ambulance, and that Mamaliga was unconscious for about ten minutes. Octavian also confirmed that Gavin and Mamaliga had previously met over drug matters, with Gavin owing Mamaliga €2,000 for cocaine. The prosecution argued that Gavin intended to kill or seriously injure Mamaliga, while Gavin claimed self‑defence, stating that Mamaliga had attacked him. The trial is ongoing before Ms Justice Eileen Creedon and a jury. Brandon Gavin pleaded not guilty.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Eyewitness tells murder trial of moment 'calm and collected' assailant stabbed friend. Charges or matters: the murder of 19-year-old Marius Mamaliga at Forest Court, Swords, on the evening of February 23, 2023. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- February 23, 2023 Hearing Or Sentence
- August 2022 Other
- new year Other
- 2024-11-01 Publication
Why: He said the accused told gardaí that he stabbed Mr Mamaliga in self defence, as he was in fear for his life because he owed money for drugs. Defence account reported by CNI
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: the murder of 19-year-old Marius Mamaliga at Forest Court, Swords, on the evening of February 23, 2023 (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
Topics
Drugs Stage Trial Violent Crime
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