Blow to the head killed migrant

It was a blow to the head that led to the death of an immigrant not long after he had been involved in an argument with a bouncer in Paceville, a pathologist testified yesterday.

Suleiman Abubaker died after being involved in a clash with 29-year-old bouncer Duncan Deguara on May 29 outside Footloose club, where Mr Deguara works.

Mr Deguara is pleading not guilty to causing a serious injury to Mr Abubaker, which injury was followed by death. He allegedly punched Mr Abubaker in the face following an argument between the two.

Mr Deguara denied having ever punched the deceased and told the police he had only pushed him on the chest in order to move him away from the door because he was drunk.

Other witnesses, Chris Tanti and Kelvin Whitelaw, both club patrons, testified that they saw the bouncer push the immigrant, who then lost his footing and fell over. They said they heard the man's head crack as it hit the pavement.

Pathologist Marie Therese Camilleri Podestà said the victim had died as a result of blunt trauma to the skull. She did not specify what would this be compatible with and was not questioned about it either.

Police Sergeant Cleon Pursehouse said that on the scene of the crime he met two Frenchmen who directed him to Mr Suleiman, who was lying on the ground. The migrant told him he had been punched.

The accused had told the witness that the week before the incident he had not allowed the immigrant in because he was drunk.

The case continues.

Police Inspector Martin Sammut prosecuted.

Lawyers José Herrera and Veronique Dalli appeared for Mr Deguara.