Man who claimed self-defense in 2019 bicyclist killing is cross-examined – NBC 6 South Florida

The man accused of killing a cyclist on the Rickenbacker Causeway in 2019 was cross-examined Friday, insisting he claimed self-defense while prosecutors believe the killing was premeditated.

Kadel Piedrahita is accused of killing 48-year-old Alexis Palencia and attacking another cyclist on the Rickenbacker Causeway in 2019.

Prosecutors showed a video in the courtroom that shows Piedrahita livestreaming, screaming and cursing. In the video, he turns to Palencia and says he wants to break him in two.

In the courtroom, Piedrahita admitted to having said those words. After being questioned by the prosecution, he also admitted to having a gun and several bullets in his backpack on the day of the shooting.

Piedrahita claimed his bike malfunctioned and Palencia hit him from behind. One video shows an altercation. Another video shows a group on the side of the road. Piedrahita claimed he was attacked by three cyclists and feared for his life.

The prosecution claimed that there were no injuries in the incident. Piedrahita told the jury that although there were no physical injuries visible on his face, he was injured.

Prosecutors also showed several video evidences and claimed Piedrahita could have walked away but did not, instead claiming he joined the group.

A video shown in the courtroom shows him saying “saca” in Spanish and calling for his gun.

After both sides had finished questioning, the defense wanted to re-submit one of the witnesses. The attorney claimed that there was a second weapon at the scene.

The judge did not grant the defense attorney’s request.

The jury is scheduled to reconvene on Monday to conclude its deliberations and hear closing arguments.