File photo.

PREVIOUSLY

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A man initially charged with murder for fatally stabbing his uncle has instead pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter.

According to court minutes, 31-year-old Travis Watson pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter Thursday, which involves killing someone without premeditation, or in the heat of passion.

Watson killed 34-year-old James Williams after the man arrived at his home late at night amid a conflict between the two. The victim was unarmed, but Watson told police he believed his uncle would kill him.

Watson also pleaded guilty to a sentencing enhancement last week for committing the crime while using a deadly weapon. Police testified that Watson stabbed Williams in the leg using a knife, hitting an artery.

In exchange, the murder charge would be dismissed. According to court documents, the plea includes a cap for the prison sentence to the middle term of sentencing guidelines, but no probation. He will be sentenced Jan. 12, 2027.

Watson, a Hoopa resident, was held to answer to the murder charge after a preliminary hearing earlier this year.

The prosecution presented evidence that Watson told multiple people he would kill Williams in advance. They alleged that Watson’s statements were inconsistent with evidence found in the trailer where the victim was killed.

However, his defense attorney argued that he stabbed him in self-defense. He presented a 911 call where Watson sought emergency services for the victim immediately after the stabbing, and evidence that Williams had previously shown up drunk to Watson’s house while armed.

Prison sentences for voluntary manslaughter convictions are typically much shorter than murder.