VANCOUVER - Blair Donnelly, the man accused of stabbing three individuals at a festival in Vancouver's Chinatown in 2023, is currently testifying at his trial. He is sharing his journey of finding religion and how it has impacted his life.

Donnelly, 66, has pleaded not guilty to three counts of aggravated assault at the B.C. Supreme Court in Vancouver. He described his past as a drug dealer, alcoholic, and “partygoer.” He stated that he made a deal with God to serve Him in exchange for a wife and family.

During the trial, which is now in its second day, Donnelly has been seen carrying a Bible. However, before his testimony, he chose to affirm that he would tell the truth instead of swearing on the Bible. He later referenced a verse related to oath swearing.

On the day of the attack, Donnelly was on unescorted leave from the B.C. Forensic Psychiatric Hospital in Coquitlam. His lawyer, Glen Orris, indicated in his opening statements that while Donnelly has admitted to the stabbings, his mental state will be a key issue in the trial.

Orris informed the court that Donnelly has been diagnosed with “bipolar disorder, atypical type” and has resided at the psychiatric hospital since 2008, following a finding of not criminally responsible for the death of his daughter.

The lawyer further stated that Donnelly was aware that his actions at the festival were illegal but believed he was “being told by God” to commit the stabbings.

The Crown presented its case on Monday, including surveillance footage that allegedly shows Donnelly's actions leading up to the attack. This footage reportedly captures him purchasing a chisel from Home Depot before traveling to Chinatown, where he stabbed two women and a man at the festival.