Taz Zarka testifies in his own defense after jury takes field trip to visit scene of deadly stabbing

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Friday was a busy day in the trial of Taiseer "Taz" Zarka. The prosecution rested, the jury visited the crime scene and Zarka took the stand in his own defense.

Zarka answered a slew of standard questions from the judge when he indicated that he wanted to testify. The questions are meant to make sure the defendant understands their rights and is making the decision to testify without any prejudice. Zarka took the stand Monday afternoon following a break to allow the jury to visit the crime scene.

The trial began earlier this week. It's over the April 2023 killing of Mark Garrity Jr. He was a customer in Zarka's Raleigh convenience store who was accused of stealing a Gatorade.

That accusation escalated and ended with Garrity being stabbed multiple times.

Zarka's defense team argues that he stabbed Garrity in self-defense when Garrity threatened to shoot him.

A couple of Raleigh police officers were called to testify Friday morning. They both spoke to Zarka's character and said they were frequently called to the store for minor disturbances.

"I think he's an outstanding citizen. I do think that he is well respected from the community. I hear the interaction between a lot of patrons that come in," officer Daniel Rosa testified.

"From my experience, this is a very peaceful person considering the clientele that he has to interact with," officer Timothy Howard testified.

After that testimony, the jury left court and went to Zarka's downtown Raleigh convenience store. The store was closed and emptied, so as not to prejudice any jury members.

The jury was escorted through the store to get an idea of the layout and space where the stabbing happened. The jury was not allowed to roam about the store or ask any questions.

When testimony ends and closing arguments wrap up, the jury in this case will have to determine if Zarka is guilty of second-degree murder. If convicted, Zarka could face up to 20 years in prison.

The prosecution rested its case Friday morning after multiple days of testimony and video evidence showing the altercation between Zarka and Garrity.

Previous testimony

In a previous police interview, Zarka told investigators that he reacted in self-defense because he felt threatened when Garrity reached into his back pocket during an argument in April 2023.

Prosecutors have spent the last two days calling witnesses and showing video of the argument between Zarka and Garrity.

Zarka said he had just arrived at his store after undergoing chemotherapy for cancer when he said he noticed Garrity stealing.

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Zarka approached Garrity and said he was verbally threatened with a gun and punched multiple times.

"I'm not taking any chances," Zarka told officers.

Zarka later said he was sorry and felt bad for the victim's family.

"I am really sorry -- he's a human being," Zarka said.