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Former Internet Star 'Kai The Hitchhiker' Murder Trial Underway

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - Opening statements are happening today in the New Jersey murder trial of the former internet star known as "Kai the Hitchhiker" who found viral fame back in 2013.

Now 30-year-old Caleb "Kai" McGillivary is accused of killing 73-year-old attorney Joseph Galfy in May of 2013.

Galfy's body was found May 13, 2013, in his Clark home. McGillvary was arrested in Philadelphia days later.

MORE: Starbucks Run Leads To Arrest Of YouTube Sensation Charged In NJ Murder

The Canadian gained some online fame after intervening in a February assault on a California utility worker in which he described using a hatchet to fend off a further attack.

Get to Know the REAL KAI, Hatchet-Wielding Hithchiker (KMPH Exclusive) by Jessob Reisbeck on YouTube

McGillivary is pleading not guilty to the first degree murder charges.

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