A murder trial revealed that a teenager accused of the sword attack that led to the death of 15-year-old Amen Teklay did not physically harm him. Amen was found critically injured on Clarendon Street in Maryhill, Glasgow, last year and tragically passed away at the scene despite medical efforts. Two teenagers, aged 16 and 17, are facing murder charges for allegedly attacking Amen with a frying pan and a sword while concealing their faces on Glenfarg Street and Clarendon Street.
The prosecution claims that the two teenagers pursued Amen, striking him with the sword, resulting in fatal injuries. Both juveniles, whose identities are protected, have denied the accusations. The 16-year-old defendant has put forth a defense of self-defense. The lawyer representing the 17-year-old defendant, Iain McSporran KC, emphasized that his client cooperated with the authorities during the investigation and maintained his innocence.
McSporran urged the jury to acquit his client, asserting that he was not involved in any criminal activities or conflicts. He highlighted that there was no evidence linking his client to a joint criminal endeavor with the co-accused. Regarding the victim’s actions, McSporran stated that Amen had actively sought out the 16-year-old defendant on the day of the incident, armed with a weapon described as a “cutlass” or a “pirate sword.” Despite the altercation that ensued, the 17-year-old did not engage in violence, as per the defense.
The defense attorney underlined that sympathy should not influence the jury’s decision-making process, emphasizing the need for a fair and evidence-based verdict. The trial is ongoing at the High Court in Glasgow under the supervision of Lord Colbeck.