Beheading trial captivates courtroom

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - A captivated courtroom sat in silence during day one of Muzzammil Hassan's murder trial.

Prosecutor Paul Bonnano said, "After murdering his wife Aasiya, calmly went to the Orchard Park police station and told police he murdered his wife."

Defense Attorney Jeremy Schwartz said, "Mo Hassan killed his wife, but he is not guilty of murder in the second degree."

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Both the prosecution and defense agree that Muzzammil Hassan killed his wife Aasiya on February 12th, 2009.

Prosecutors told the jury that Hassan used two hunting knives to stab her dozens of times and saw off her head.

But the defense argues Hassan was a battered spouse.

Schwartz said, "Numerous times throughout their marriage, Aasiya unleashed physical and psychological attacks."

Two jurors and one alternate were excused in the middle of the day for what are being called "personal reasons."

That leaves only one alternate, meaning if any more leave, the judge may be forced to declare a mistrial.