Of all the blows inflicted on him, only one was fatal, the second stab to the chest which pierced the aorta. The cause of death was therefore excessive blood loss. The first, ineffective blow from behind was dealt to Caesar by Publius Servilius Casca. Surprised, Caesar shouted the words "Casca, you villain, what are you doing?" in the assassin's direction. The terrified assassin cried out for help and at that moment a hail of blades rained down on Caesar.
