Graham Veitch expected to plead not criminally responsible to murder charge

Behind him sat two families, each to a bench: his own, including his mother, who was overcome with emotion and sobbed; and the family of David Collins, his mother’s partner, whom Veitch is accused of murdering just before Christmas last year.
Veitch’s case wasn’t due to be back before the court until next week, but was called early, with rumours of the Crown and defence having come to some kind of agreement. It’s expected Veitch will plead not criminally responsible to charges of first degree murder, assault with a weapon, assaulting a police officer, theft of a motor vehicle and failing to stop a motor vehicle.
However, the case was set over until Friday, after lawyer Jason Edwards told the court there was some “new information” to be discussed. Edwards and lawyer Mark Gruchy are representing Veitch.
In January, Veitch was deemed fit to stand trial, after a lengthy psychiatric evaluation.
Police and emergency personnel were called to a home on Cadigan’s Road in Logy Bay-Middle Cove-Outer Cove around 7 p.m. on Dec. 18, where Collins was found gravely injured. He was taken to hospital, where he died of his injuries.
Veitch’s mother and brother had also allegedly been assaulted with a hammer, but weren’t injured.
Veitch allegedly stole Collins’ car and fled, but police located him in Outer Cove four hours later. He reportedly rammed a police cruiser while trying to escape, then struck a second one while attempting to drive around it.
Collins, 55, was a native of Placentia and a well-known pharmacist. He was living with Veitch’s mother at the time he was killed.

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Twitter: @tara_bradbury