SAN ANTONIO-- Opening testimony is underway for a man accused of killing a jogger on New Year's Eve of 2013.
Christian Bautista pleaded not guilty on Tuesday for the stabbing death of Lauren Bump. The 24 year-old was home from school for New Year's Eve when she decided to take a run at O. P. Schnabel Park; one that was familiar to her.
Bump was later found brutally stabbed to death.
Her father was the first to take the stand. He testified about when he first knew something was wrong.
Police arrested Christian Bautista and charged him with her murder. They believe Bautista used a military-style knife in the murder. The prosecution says they have evidence that will make this an open and shut case, but the defense disagrees.
"At the end of the evidence, ladies and gentleman, you will realize that you are sitting in the same room as a cold-blooded murderer, and you will be asked to follow the oath that you took yesterday: A true verdict rendered according to the law and the evidence," the state prosecutor said.
"I want you to pay attention to all the details. I know you will, and remember the presumption of innocence," defense lawyer for Bautista countered.
The judge was forced to address Bautista, who was mouthing words and making noises in court. One of the female prosecutors added that Bautista winked and blew a kiss at her during the proceedings.
The judge gave him a stern warning.
Bautista was deemed competent to stand trial last year. If he's found guilty, he could face a life sentence.
