The man accused in the April 2023 shooting death of Joshua Lockwood at a rural property near Grand Forks has recounted the incident to the jury.
Sean Tiessen, 47, is standing trial for manslaughter in Rossland Supreme Court. He testified in his own defence Wednesday. Lockwood was Tiessen’s tenant and they lived together in the same home.
Tiessen said Lockwood, 33, raised a hatchet during a dispute over alleged mistreatment of Lockwood’s dog. Tiessen said after he retreated to his bedroom, Lockwood persisted in banging on his door and at one point hit it with a hatchet.
Tiessen testified that at that point, he got his gun and loaded it.
In a shaky voice, Tiessen told the jury the situation continued to escalate and he decided it was going to be “him or me.” He said he left his room, kicked Lockwood’s bedroom door, and backed off. Tiessen said Lockwood came out and raised the hatchet again, so Tiessen fired.
Tiessen said he feels “terrible, horrible” about what happened, but felt he had no choice, saying he wouldn’t be here today had he decided not to act. He said he valued his life and as a father wasn’t willing to sacrifice himself.
Earlier Wednesday, the jury heard a recording of the 911 call Tiessen placed after the shooting, as well as a recording of the shooting itself.
Cross-examination continues this morning.
