MIAMI – A man accused of killing a popular Miami bartender in 2014 told a judge in Spanish Thursday, "I just want to die already."
Raul Reinoso Martinez made the statement after requesting that he be allowed to fire his defense attorney and represent himself in his trial.
The judge denied Reinoso Martinez's request and opening statements resumed.
Reinoso Martinez was arrested in St. Augustine Beach on July 4, 2014, in connection with the fatal shooting of Louis "Lulo" Salgar.
Police said Salgar arrived at his home near Miami's El Portal neighborhood on June 24, 2014, to find Reinoso Martinez burglarizing his home.
Police said Reinoso Martinez shot Salgar and fled in the victim's Honda Accord.
The stolen vehicle was later found near The Breakers hotel in Palm Beach.
Police said Reinoso Martinez was found with a machete when he was arrested.
Salgar was known in South Florida as a popular bartender who worked at numerous establishments, including the Broken Shaker, The Social Club and Gramps.
The murder trial is expected to last for four days.