Christmas Day murder suspect claims he's innocent

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Anthony Barnett was briefly in court on Friday, just days after pleading not guilty to the murder.

Barnett is charged with killing Estevanico Goldsmith in Madera after a fight broke out between the two on Christmas Day. He allegedly went to his car, got a gun, and shot the victim.

RELATED: Madera Police arrest man at Fresno's Veterans Hospital wanted for Christmas Day murder

However, Barnett's Defense Attorney, Craig Collins, says Goldsmith may have been the one to instigate the fight.

"I believe this case is going to come down to self-defense. There were witnesses that corroborate that and I need to nail that down, the information behind that," Collins said.

Barnett was arrested at the Fresno Veterans Hospital less than a week after the murder. Collins says his client is a veteran and believes his mental health could come into play.

"There might be an indication that he suffers from PTSD as a veteran, and I need to get all that information."

The Madera County District Attorney says there is a veterans court where cases can be resolved through treatment but is not sure if Barnett's case will qualify.

Dave Linn said, "I'm currently attempting to discuss his case with one of the veterans court judges to determine whether he will qualify, and will be diverted into this program."

Barnett's mom declined to speak on camera but did say she was shocked by the allegations and that Barnett is not the type of person everyone is making him out to be.

However, while the suspect was in court, the victim's family spent Friday getting ready for a memorial to celebrate Goldsmith's life.

Along with justice, they hope Barnett gets the help he needs going forward.