The man accused of a 2017 fatal incident on 6th Street in Courtenay began his trial in Courtenay Supreme Court this week.
Jonathan Walter Billy was originally charged with second degree murder in July 2017 but the charge was downgraded to manslaughter for his first appearance in court June 5.
RELATED: Courtenay man charged with second degree murder
During the early morning hours of June 30, 2017, Comox Valley RCMP were called to a residence at the 500 block on 6th Street and located 25-year-old Troy Matthew Emmons decease as a result of foul play.
When Billy was arrested, it was determined both parties in the incident were known to each other.
Under the criminal code, manslaughter does not carry a minimum sentence, and sentences can vary from probation to life in prison.
The trial is estimated to last about three weeks.
erin.haluschak@comoxvalleyrecord.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter