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Dad breaks down as he tells murder trial of moment son told him: 'I f**ked up'

Summary

In the Central Criminal Court, 22‑year‑old Brandon Gavin pleaded not guilty to the murder of 19‑year‑old Marius Mamaliga, who was stabbed in the neck on 23 February 2023. The prosecution argued that Gavin entered the back seat of a car behind Mamaliga and, without warning, stabbed him with a knife, claiming the act was an attempt to kill or seriously injure the victim. Gavin's father, Eddie, testified that his son had called him in distress, saying "Dad, I f**ked up," and that Gavin had been shaking and hysterical. He also said that Gavin wanted to hand himself in and that the son had no intention of hiding. The court heard that Gavin's mother, Jacqueline, had known of his long‑standing mental health problems and that he had used marijuana and cocaine. The trial is proceeding before Ms Justice Eileen Creedon and a jury.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Dad breaks down as he tells murder trial of moment son told him: 'I f**ked up'. Charges or matters: Mr Mamaliga's murder at Forest Court, Swords, on the evening of February 23, 2023. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• February 23, 2023 Incident
• February 2023 Other
• 2024-11-04 Publication

Why: There will be evidence the accused told gardaí that he stabbed Mr Mamaliga in self defence because he was in fear for his life as he owed money for drugs. Defence account reported by CNI

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Drugs Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report