Updated: Gunner Psaila's death - accused were responsible for victim's welfare, lawyer insists

Lieutenant Christian Vella and Lance Bombardier Marvic Peregin had been negligent in their duties and this had led to the death of Gunner Matthew Psaila, lawyer Micheal Tanti Dougall said this morning. Dr Tanti Dougall, who is representing Gunner Psaila's family, was making his final submissions in court in the case against Lt Vella and Lance Bombardier Peregin who stand charged with Gunner Psaila's his involuntary homicide through negligence and committing a crime they were in duty bound to prevent. Gunner Psaila died following a military exercise in Chadwick Lakes in February 2010. Dr Tanti Dougall said there was a clear picture of what had happened on that day and that the facts spoke for themselves. The accused were responsible for the welfare of the victim and in charge of the training exercise, he said. Referring to the inquiring board, the lawyer said it was clear from its findings that Chris Vella was the top ranking officer followed by Marvic Peregin. The rifle and webbing which were heavy were not used in previous exercises but the accused had chosen what was to be used. The reconnaissance operation was amateurish as a stick was used to measure the water depth and feet...