We affirm appellant Bruce’s conviction and sentence for attempted second degree murder upon a holding that even though the victim in this case was not present during the trial, the state sustained its evidentiary burden by presenting the testimony of an eyewitness who could rebut appellant’s direct testimony that he acted in self-defense. In this regard, this case is distinguishable from Ferguson v. State, 379 So.2d 163 (Fla. 3d DCA 1980).

Affirmed.