I think this is the crux of the argument for cases like this.
In my opinion, the initial contact is allowed it to be just about anything short of physically striking or possibly threatening the other person. If the other person gets mad and attacks, then it’s considered self-defense when the instigator kills the other.
Like if I go up to you and call you ugly and you start chasing me and telling me you’re going to kick my ass, then I’m justified in pulling a gun out and shooting you while you’re chasing me.
There’s more nuance to it, but that’s basically how I generalize it.
What’s your opinion?