Engineer Says Used Knife to Fight Off “More Than He Could Handle”
A Minnesota man on trial for fatally stabbing one teenager and injuring others during a water tubing brawl claims he acted in self-defense. Nicolae Miu, 54, testified Tuesday that he used a knife to defend himself from a group of teenagers who became aggressive.
Miu Describes Escalating Encounter
Miu recounted the events leading up to the stabbing on July 30, 2022, in Wisconsin’s Apple River. He stated that the initial taunts and laughter from the teenagers turned into physical aggression, causing his fear to “creep up.” Video footage presented showed Miu retrieving a Swiss army knife, which he claimed was intended for cutting rope.
Miu Claims He Was Overwhelmed
Miu testified that two teenage girls from the group initially grabbed him. He described the situation as a “horror situation” when a male teenager punched him and pushed him into the water with the intent to drown him. Miu claimed he couldn’t identify the number of attackers but felt outnumbered.
Defense Focuses on Self-Defense
Miu stated he entered a “fog” during the remaining events, which included stabbing Schuman and injuring others. He admitted discarding the knife in the river due to fear. When questioned by his defense attorney, Miu insisted he would have been killed if he hadn’t defended himself.
Miu Maintains Self-Defense Plea
Miu has consistently pleaded self-defense in the case, which he claims has caused him nightmares. Previously recorded interviews played in court depicted him comparing the teenagers to “wolves” attacking him. Miu’s claims contradict some witness testimonies, with some stating he initiated the physical altercation.
Miu Faces Serious Charges
Miu has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree homicide and attempted first-degree homicide. The trial will determine the validity of his self-defense claims and the consequences he will face.
