Software developer Khoa Tran, accused of murdering his neighbour over a dispute about barbecue fumes, testified in his own defence on Thursday, insisting he had nothing to do with the killing. The 36-year-old appeared in a bold white linen suit, displaying confidence as he denied any involvement in the death of filmmaker Reeyaz Habib, 53.
Neighbourly Dispute Over Barbecue
Tran and his wife lived in a townhouse at 26 Western Battery Rd. in Liberty Village, while Habib resided in the unit above them. Initially, the two had a good relationship, often sharing beers and conversations on the common stairs. However, tensions escalated in 2023 when Habib complained about the smell of charcoal barbecue smoke permeating his home. Tran admitted he had been cooking ribs and brisket, but said they resolved the issue after a conversation.
On June 1, 2023, Tran claimed Habib crossed the line by accusing him of trafficking their roommate, Linh Hua, who had recently arrived from Vietnam. Habib also continued to complain about the fumes, despite Tran having stopped using the barbecue after their last confrontation. Tran admitted feeling angry and offended but denied any involvement in the murder.
Discovery of the Body
Habib's decomposing remains were found on June 8, 2023, in the condo's underground trash compactor. The body was wrapped in towels and blankets, secured with duct tape, and had notes warning it was heavy and contained glass. Two days earlier, Tran said he heard screams from Habib's unit around 3 a.m. but did not call 911, assuming it was typical neighbourhood noise. He later told Hua it was just Habib making a movie, a story he and his wife had agreed upon to prevent her from being scared.
Stolen Bike and Trash Incident
Two days after the screams, Tran admitted stealing Habib's unlocked bicycle and throwing it in the trash, an act caught on video. He called it "incredibly stupid and juvenile" but insisted it had nothing to do with the disappearance or murder. After the body was found, Tran told Hua not to talk to police, explaining he feared being implicated.
Cross-Examination Continues
Under cross-examination by Crown attorney Anna Tenhouse, Tran accused her of mischaracterizing his words. Tenhouse presented testimony from a neighbour who claimed to have seen Tran leaving Habib's home on June 7, 2023, and locking the door. Tran denied this. She also played a video from June 8 showing a man wearing Habib's hat, which Tran claimed was not him, despite wearing similar clothes. The trial continues on Monday.
