Estefano's accused shooter takes stand

MIAMI, Aug. 26 (UPI) -- The man charged with trying to kill Miami songwriter Estefano testified at his trial Tuesday that he is innocent, The Miami Herald reported.

Francisco Oliveira Jr., 31, is charged with attempted murder in the May 2007 shooting of Fabio "'Estefano'' Salgado, in which the famed Latin songwriter and music producer was shot in the head at his home and left for dead. The Herald said Oliveira took the stand Tuesday on the fourth day of his trial in Miami-Dade Circuit Court.

Oliveira told the court that he was home watching a videotape when the shooting occurred.

Estefano has written hits for stars such as Gloria Estefan, Marc Anthony and Shakira. Oliveira worked as a handyman at his studio. The songwriter has accused Oliveira of trying to kill him on behalf of former business manager Jose Luis Gil and a Miami Santeria church that Estefano says wants to cover up the alleged theft of millions of dollars.

Neither Gil nor church officials have been charged in the shooting, the newspaper said.