A Stewiacke teenager charged with second-degree murder has elected to be tried by judge and jury in Nova Scotia Supreme Court.
The youth, 17, is charged in the Aug. 18 death of Daniel Handrahan, 46, following an early morning altercation outside a Stewiacke residence. The identity of the accused is protected under the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
A one-day preliminary inquiry has been tentatively scheduled for July 17, 2018. Defence attorney Stan MacDonald said he anticipates calling three witnesses during that hearing. However, MacDonald told Judge Amy Sakalauskas that he would prefer an earlier date, if possible.
A status report has been scheduled for Dec. 4 to determine whether an earlier court date is available for the preliminary inquiry.
Colchester District RCMP was dispatched via a 911 call shortly before 3:30 a.m. on Aug. 18 to a disturbance at a home in Stewiacke. Upon arrival, they found Handrahan laying in a driveway and suffering from life-threatening injuries.
He was transported by EHS to Colchester East Hants Health Centre where he was pronounced dead.
The youth is free on a bail recognizance with a number of conditions.
