A Swedish hip-hop artist accused of killing a jazz pianist at a Hollywood crosswalk will testify that he was acting in self-defense after the victim slapped his rented SUV.
In opening statements Wednesday in the trial of David Moses Jassy, a defense lawyer said the songwriter and producer also known as Dave Monopoly got out of his vehicle and assaulted the pedestrian because he feared for his own safety.
The 35-year-old Jassy has pleaded not guilty to murder, assault and other charges in the 2008 death of 55-year-old musician John Osnes.
Prosecutors say Jassy got out of his SUV, punched Osnes, kicked him in the head, then ran him over as he drove away.
Jassy, of Stockholm, has co-written songs for "High School Musical" star Ashley Tisdale.
He faces a possible life sentence if convicted of murder.
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