Secunda Regional Court denies Phillip O’Neill bail
The court heard on Thursday the police suspect the weapon used to kill Hester on the night of June 1, is a firearm O’Neill had obtained while being a police reservist at a local police station many years ago.
Magistrate Graham Cupido denied Phillip O’Neill (71) bail in the Secunda Regional Court on Thursday, July 28.
The matter has now been postponed to September 7, for completion of the investigation and a trial date for the High Court.
O’Neill is accused of the murder of his wife, Hester O’Neill (49).
O’Neill will remain in custody.
The court heard on Thursday the police suspect the weapon used to kill Hester on the night of June 1, is a firearm O’Neill had obtained while being a police reservist at a local police station many years ago.
The gun was never handed back to the police when he left.
O’Neill testified he also provided training and was told by his “supervisor” to keep the firearm in his possession for when he had to give training again.
A 9mm short Astra firearm which is licensed and live ammunition were confiscated from the murder scene.
While on the stand, Sgt Bongani Mabaso said he received a call from the Secunda Police’s Call Centre about the shooting.
He further stated that O’Neill made a call to Hester’s friend and said “I shot Hester, you can come to fetch her. Also, bring the police with you.”
It is alleged that an argument ensued between the couple at their home in Brandspruit Street in Secunda, at about 22:35 on the night of the murder.
According to police reports, Hester had allegedly told O’Neill she wanted to leave him.
The police report stated that she was shot in the back of her neck.
She was certified dead on the scene.
O’Neill and his defence did not approve of the Ridge Times’ application to take photos of his latest appearance in court.
The Ridge Times argued that they must inform the community, that the story is in the public’s interest and that the said murder highlights one of South Africa’s highest crimes involving gender-based violence and domestic violence.
His defence stated O’Neill has a right to dignity and that the matter is not in the public’s interest.
Magistrate Cupido ruled in the favour of the Ridge Times for photos to be taken.
https://www.citizen.co.za/ridge-times/289791/70-year-old-appears-in-secunda-magistrates-court-for-his-wifes-murder/
