Father claims self-defence in son's death during family argument
Mehmet Ali Okuman pleaded not guilty to murdering his son Gokhan in Melbourne in January 2025, claiming self-defence.
A trial in the Victorian Supreme Court heard how an argument over a food delivery driver escalated into a fatal stabbing at a Craigieburn home. Mehmet Ali Okuman admits he inflicted the knife wound that killed his 33-year-old son Gokhan in January 2025.
Okuman claims he was acting in self-defence when his son attacked. The prosecution says Okuman lost his temper and attacked with intent to kill.
The argument began when Okuman spoke to the delivery driver, which angered Gokhan, who had mental health issues and had told his family not to interact with drivers. The physical fight escalated until Okuman grabbed a kitchen knife.
His wife was also injured trying to intervene. The trial continues before Justice Amanda Fox.
- 54
- Father's age
- 33
- Son's age
- January 25, Craigieburn, Melbourne
- Date and place
- Hit in the leg
- Wife's injury
Why it mattersThe case hinges on whether a father can claim self-defence during a family fight that ended in death, raising questions about when force is justified at home.
AustraliaThe trial outcome will shape how Victorian courts interpret self-defence claims in domestic disputes and may influence future cases involving family violence.
