On 28/1, the Dong Thap Provincial People's Court conducted an online trial, sentencing Loc, a resident of Long Dinh commune, to 16 years in prison for murder. Prior to the trial, Loc's family compensated the victim's family nearly 160 million dong for hospital fees, funeral costs, and emotional damages.

Ha Mai Tan Loc at court. Photo: Nam An

According to court documents, Loc, a mechanic, and Nguyen, 36, from Tan Phuoc 3 commune, were drinking at an acquaintance's house in early 1/2025. During the gathering, Nguyen assaulted another person without provocation. When a third individual, Phuc, intervened, Nguyen kicked him repeatedly, causing Phuc to leave.

The following day, Loc and Nguyen continued drinking. After waking up, Loc saw Nguyen smoking and began to verbally abuse him, calling him a "son of a bitch" and "stupid as an ox", while also kicking him. Enraged, Loc grabbed a wooden stick and struck Nguyen forcefully on the head. Nguyen collapsed, convulsing and frothing at the mouth.

Loc then ran to call the homeowner, falsely claiming Nguyen was having a seizure. Both men carried Nguyen near a water jar and attempted first aid by squeezing lemon into his mouth. Nguyen regained consciousness briefly and was rushed to the emergency room, but he later died from a traumatic brain injury.

By Nam An

*The victim's name has been changed.