A first-aider who was one of the first people on the scene of a murder described in court today how the victim had half his face blown off by a shot fired in his face.

Christian Mangion, a first-aider with St John's ambulance, was on the roof of his parents' house when he heard a gunshot that killed bank messenger Alphonse Ferriggi. He grabbed his first aid kit and ran to the scene.

Upon arriving, he found Mr Ferriggi covered in blood and with half his face blown off by the shot. He died seconds later.

He was testifying in the compilation of evidence against two men charged with the murder that took place more than 14 years ago.

James Vella, 33, of Qormi, known as Il-Frejżer, and Chris Scerri, 35, from Pietà, known as Gazzetti or Buttuni, were charged with the murder. They were charged after Joseph Zammit, 57, of Floriana, known as Żeppi Redgħu, and Richard Grech, 47, Iż-Żinanna, had said they were involved.

Mr Zammit was jailed for 31 years in 2009 for the murder and Mr Grech sentenced to life in May 2011.

Mr Grech's former girlfriend, who cannot be named by court order, testified how the day after the murder, Mr Grech had told her that he had shot a man and believed he had killed him. She did not believe him as he often bluffed but never asked him any questions.

Presiding Magistrate Josette Demicoli once again denied a request for bail, saying there were more witnesses that needed to testify.

Lawyer Franco Debono appeared for the men while Police Inspector Chris Pullicino prosecuted.

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