The trial began Monday for a Springfield man accused of stabbing his tenant to death with a sword.

Jurors were taken to the home at 154 Kewbury Road where prosecutors allege Jason Waller, 36, stabbed 26-year-old Donald Argabright to death. Waller is facing two counts of murder, a count of tampering with evidence and a count of carrying a concealed weapon.

According to Springfield police, Waller confronted Argabright about an issue with rent payments at the home. The argument became heated, and Waller allegedly pulled out a small sword and stabbed Argabright in the driveway. Argabright was pronounced dead at the scene.

Stacey Young, Argrabright’s girlfriend, co-tenant and witness, said Waller “sucker-punched” her boyfriend several times. She said Argabright tried to defend himself with a rock, but became cornered in front of the garage. That’s when Waller, Young said, produced the sword.

“Donald threw his arms up like this, and Jason stabbed him right here,” Young said, gesturing to the center of her chest.

The Clark County Prosecutor’s Office will continue with introducing witnesses today. Jon Paul Rion, Waller’s attorney, said he will not argue that Waller didn’t kill Argabright but will indicate the stabbing was in self-defense. A gun was located by police in the lawn, according to evidence presented Monday. Rion did not say if the gun will be connected to that defense.

Previously, Rion filed a motion claiming his client was guilty by reason of insanity but later withdrew that defense.

Waller’s bond is set at $500,000. He remains in the Clark County Jail.