On the 23rd of December 2017, Andrew Doan was charged with the murder of John McCarthy, after it was alleged he stabbed Mr McCarthy with a screwdriver, triggered by racist remarks.
Strong allegations from the prosecution drew this week’s trial out over several days, with the defence remaining firm that the death was accidental.
During the trial the defence argued that no witnesses saw Mr McCarthy get stabbed by Mr Doan, with the prosecution saying a sinister inference was required.
The defence also argued that Mr McCarthy was intoxicated, 3 times the legal limit, and combined with rage, and clumsily fighting, he would have not been able to avoid the screwdriver.
After the jury deliberated for just over an hour, the life changing verdict was revealed.
Mr Andrew Doan was found not guilty over murder charges, and not guilty of lesser charges of manslaughter.
As the result was read a collective gasp filled the room, Mr Doan and his family cried with joy and relief, while the family of the deceased cried with despair.
Michael Perrella, Doan’s Lawyer, thanked the jury for arriving to the verdict of acquittal, however he said this is not a win for anyone.
“There are no winners as a result of this trial,” Mr Perrella said.
“Those that were present on the night, the 23rd December 2017, will live with the consequences of what happened for the rest of their life.”
Supporters of the Mr McCarthy were visibly upset with the outcome and refused to comment.
Mr Doan spent 13.5 months in custody after the incident and was denied bail.
Chief Justice, Peter Quinlan, who oversaw the trial, told Mr Doan he is now a free man, and can now be reunited with his family.
Mr Doan’s friends and family gathered waiting for him in the lobby, before walking free from court this afternoon.
He described this period of time to be a crazy roller coaster, not wishing it upon anyone.
“It’s really good to be back with everyone, with my family and friends, i missed them all so much…”
“I can’t say how much i love them all so much… their support the whole time…” expressed Mr Doan.
