A Mount Vernon Water Department worker charged in the deadly stabbing of a DPW worker faced a judge at a virtual court appearance Monday.

According to police, the stabbing happened around 2:30 p.m. on Friday near East Third Street.

Carlton Naughton, 43, is accused of fatally stabbing 35-year-old Chinyelu Browne.

According to published reports, Naughton's attorney says this was a case of self-defense and that Brown first slashed Naughton in the face and he then defended himself. His attorney entered a not guilty plea Monday to first-degree manslaughter.

"My client was at work, he works for Mount Vernon City Water Department. He stopped his vehicle on Third Street to get a drink. When he exited his vehicle shortly thereafter, Mr. Browne attacked him and stabbed him. It's an undisputed fact that he was stabbed by mister Browne first," said defense attorney Christina T. Hall.

Brown was stabbed several times and later died at Montefiore Mount Vernon Hospital.

Hall says Browne had a prior relationship with Naughton's sister.

She says even though their relationship ended a couple of years ago, Browne continued to harass the Naughton family.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help with Browne's funeral expenses.

Naughton remains at the Westchester County Jail awaiting bail.

News 12 was told Naughton is expected back at Mount Vernon City Court on Sept. 7 for a felony hearing.

A candlelight vigil for Browne was held on East Third Street, between First and Second avenues in Mount Vernon.