Man charged with murder after fatal beating with electric guitar

A man in his 40s is facing a murder charge over a fatal assault in Sastamala, with prosecutors seeking a life sentence, Yle reports. The case is being heard at Pirkanmaa District Court on Wednesday.

The assault took place on 1 August in the victim’s apartment on Kannintie. According to the indictment, the defendant subjected the victim to prolonged and extremely violent abuse, including punching, kicking and striking him with an electric guitar. The blows were directed at the victim’s head and torso.

Prosecutors say the victim died several hours later from a combination of head and chest injuries. They argue that the violence was particularly brutal and cruel, and that its duration and intensity showed a determined intent to kill.

The prosecution says the victim suffered considerable pain and distress because death did not come quickly. It also says the victim was unable to defend himself and had done nothing to provoke the violence.

The defendant has been in custody since the day of the assault.