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Toronto man testifies in murder trial, claims anger led to violence
In a courtroom filled with tension, Godfrey Sig-Od took the stand on Friday to defend himself against charges of first-degree murder for the deaths of his ex-wife and daughter.
The 49-year-old, speaking through a Tagalog interpreter, described a moment of intense anger that he claimed led to the tragic events of August 26, 2022. Sig-Od stated, “My anger exploded. I was very, very mad,” as he recounted the circumstances that led to the fatal confrontation.
The build-up to tragedy
Sig-Od testified that he had planned to renew his passport with the help of his ex-wife, Elvie Sig-Od, and their daughter, Angelica. He expressed his frustration over financial issues, particularly a $3,000 debt he owed Elvie for her support in moving to Canada.
The tension escalated when he felt that Elvie was more concerned about the money than their family. “It turns out you’re just after the money. Everything is money, money,” he recalled saying during the confrontation.
A moment of chaos
As the situation deteriorated, Sig-Od described a chaotic scene in the car where he suddenly found a knife.
He claimed he could not remember how the violence unfolded, stating, “All I know was my anger exploded and I do not know what happened.” Witnesses testified that Elvie was stabbed 14 times and Angelica 19 times, but Sig-Od insisted he did not plan the attack.
“I don’t remember. I was very mad,” he said, reflecting on the aftermath of the incident.
The emotional fallout
Throughout his testimony, Sig-Od displayed a range of emotions, from anger to despair. He expressed confusion and sorrow over the loss of his family, questioning, “Why did you do this to me?” He described moments of crying and feeling distraught after realizing the consequences of his actions.
Sig-Od’s defense attorney, Daniel Brodsky, highlighted the emotional turmoil Sig-Od experienced, suggesting that his actions were not premeditated but rather a result of overwhelming anger and frustration.
As the trial continues, the jury will have to consider the complexities of Sig-Od’s emotional state and the circumstances leading up to the tragic events. The case raises important questions about mental health, domestic conflict, and the devastating impact of unresolved anger within families.
