A father and son have been charged with the murder of a 21-year-old in Ħamrun last Sunday.

Kurt Grech, a 23-year-old driver known as in-Nemes, and his father Joseph, 53, stood side-by-side in the dock, charged with killing Brandon Pace. Accompanied by several family members, they both pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The victim was killed in front of his mother and girlfriend following an argument between two families. He was stabbed five times, wounding him fatally after a stab in the heart.

The theory being followed is that the motive behind the murder was the well-being of a five-year-old boy.

The murder was carried out in Giovanni Barbara Street.

Two members of the victim's family are serving time at Corradino Correctional Facility

The two were charged with wilful homicide, possession of firearm, possession of pointed instrument, breached public peace and good order and threatening and insulting relatives of the victim. The son alone was further charged with having attempted to grievously injure the victim's partner by means of a knife. The father was charged with having threatened the victim's sister with a knife.

Joseph Grech and his son Kurt being escorted into court. Photo: Matthew MirabelliJoseph Grech and his son Kurt being escorted into court. Photo: Matthew Mirabelli

Charged in front of Magistrate Monica Vella, the defence said that at this stage it will not request bail but reserved right to do so after termination of inquiry.

The prosecution did not object to the defence requesting that both men are kept at Mount Carmel Hospital for their own personal security. Currently, two members of the victim's family are serving time at Corradino Correctional Facility. Moreover, Kurt Grech requires medical attention. 

One of the victim's sisters was seated at the back of the courtroom observing the proceedings accompanied by one of her brother's girlfriends.

Lawyer Roberto Montalto was defence counsel. Lawyers Noel Bianco and Silvio Brincat appeared parte civile.

Inspectors Keith Arnaud and Elliott Magro prosecuted.

Forensics at the scene of the crime last Sunday. Photo: Steve Zammit LupiForensics at the scene of the crime last Sunday. Photo: Steve Zammit Lupi

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