A judgment that reveals the complexity of violent acts
This Friday, the Tarragona High Court began a trial that examines the tragic circumstances that surrounded the death of a man in the city in 2023. The prosecutor’s office has presented a case in which it demands twelve and a half years in prison for the accused of a crime of homicide, while the defense argues that the facts should be described as a reckless homicide.
Circumstances of the fatal fight
The alleged author of the murder, diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, was involved in a fight that began with a simple disagreement on a cigarette. According to reports, the victim hit a glass bottle, and at a time of extreme violence, he was immobilized with his knee over his neck until the authorities arrived. The victim succumbed two days after the events, on August 22.
Key testimonies at the trial
During the first session of the trial, several witnesses provided crucial information on events. Owners of a local bar have stated that the defendant was a regular customer who frequented the establishment, described as a ‘normal’ person. In contrast, the victim had been to behave disturbingly, asking for money and tobacco from other customers.
The version of the witnesses
One of the owners said that at one point the victim fell to the ground, at which point the defendant placed his knee on the man’s neck. “There was no weapons, just an empty Vichy bottle,” said the testimony. ‘The defendant took the bottle from a table and hit him several times.’
The victim’s reaction and the arrival of the authorities
The bar’s wife corroborated that the fight originated by a cigarette request. He added that he asked the defendant to stop pressing the victim’s neck, warning him that he could cause his death. According to his statement, the victim tried to flee, but shortly afterwards he stopped moving. The officers of the Guàrdia Urbana took between 20 and 30 minutes to reach the scene.
Medical evaluation and fatal consequences
Medical experts have testified that the victim was admitted in a critical condition to the ICU, where he was diagnosed with a brain anoxia due to neck compression. The subsequent tests showed that the victim had suffered multiple bruises, confirming that his death was the result of a violent action.
Perspectives and future statements
The trial will continue next week with the appearance of more witnesses, including agents of the Guàrdia Urbana and experts who will provide a deeper view of the facts. The Prosecutor’s Office requests a compensation of 21,000 euros for each of the six brothers of the victim, raising the total to 126,000 euros.
A case that raises issues on social violence
As the trial progresses, it becomes clear that this case not only addresses the particular circumstances of a conflict, but also reflects a greater problem of violence and vulnerability in our communities. The situation demands a deep reflection on how we address social tensions and the need for a more empathetic and comprehensive approach to violence.
