Court hears of brawl between friends who drove cars into garage at the same time

Michael Sammut, 48 of Zebbug was today arraigned in court and charged with grievously injuring his 38-year-old colleague Joseph Cordina, causing €457.67 in damages to the victim's vehicle and breaching the public peace.

Prosecuting inspector Joseph Busuttil said that on the feast of Santa Maria, 15 August, the two spent the day out together and returned home at around 8:10pm when they both attempted to gain access to a garage entrance at the same time. The entrance leads to a number of privately-owned garages in Triq San Pawl at St Paul's Bay.

An argument ensued between the two friends after the cars collided at the entrance. Joseph Cordina was rushed to Mater Dei Hospital suffering from head injuries.

Sammut, who was not arraigned under arrest but during a customary district police sitting, pleaded not guilty to the charges. Lawyers Franco Debono and Marion Camilleri appeared for the accused.

Magistrate Aaron Bugeja presided the sitting.