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Home invasion manslaughter trial pushed back until next month

The focus of the lawyers' arguments is expected to be self defence
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The Sault Ste. Marie Courthouse is pictured in this file photo. Michael Purvis/SooToday
The continuation of Joshua McCabe's manslaughter trial has been delayed until April 15.

The Crown and defence were slated to make their closing submissions Friday in the fatal shooting that is linked to a home invasion at his Morin Street residence two years ago.

But earlier in the week, Superior Court Justice Edward Gareau reconvened the proceedings to tell the lawyers and participants that because of a personal matter it was impossible for him to continue the trial at this time.

A couple of days later, prosecutor Trent Wilson and defence lawyer Don Orazietti were able to confirm the new date.

McCabe, 33, is charged in the Feb. 10, 2018 death of 23-year-old Christopher Swanson.

On the first day of his trial last month, he pleaded not guilty to manslaughter and discharging a firearm in a manner reckless to life and safety.

The court heard Swanson died after being shot during an altercation that occurred when three men pushed their way into the home, located in the 400 block of Morin Street.

The trio was masked and had at least two weapons __ a large machete and a smaller folding knife.

McCabe's father, who was at his son's home, was stabbed in the back during the incident.

When the trial resumes the lawyers' arguments will focus on the issue of self defence.

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About the Author: Linda Richardson

Linda Richardson is a freelance journalist who has been covering Sault Ste. Marie's courts and other local news for more than 45 years.
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