Crown Rests Case in Urgent Murder Trial of Misha Pavelick

UPDATE: The Crown has officially rested its case in the urgent murder trial of a man accused of killing Misha Pavelick, following over two weeks of intense testimony. The trial, which began on October 20, centers around the fatal stabbing of the 19-year-old at the Kinookimaw campground near Regina Beach—approximately 45 kilometres northwest of Regina—on May 21, 2006.

The accused, now 36 years old, is charged with second-degree murder and has pleaded not guilty. His identity remains protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act due to his age—17—at the time of the incident. Crown prosecutor Adam Breker called on just over 30 witnesses from the original pool of 50 to present their accounts of the chaotic events leading up to Pavelick’s death.

Witnesses described a night where innocent drinking turned violent after Pavelick reportedly smashed a beer bottle over the head of his former girlfriend’s boyfriend. Tensions escalated with the arrival of an uninvited group, including the accused, leading to two separate altercations that night. As testimonies unfolded, accounts diverged, especially regarding who wielded a weapon and the circumstances surrounding the stabbing.

During the opening remarks, Breker acknowledged that while he did not expect any witnesses to have seen the stabbing itself, he is confident in proving that the accused was responsible. The Crown has indicated it will seek an adult sentence if the accused is found guilty.

In a surprising turn, defence lawyer Andrew Hitchcock announced on Tuesday that he would not be calling any evidence in the case. Judge Catherine Dawson informed the jury that she would require time to review all evidence presented before dismissing them until Thursday. The jury is set to return to hear closing arguments and obtain instructions from the judge, with deliberation expected to begin on Friday.

This high-profile case has drawn significant attention due to the tragic loss of life and the implications of youth justice. As the trial progresses, the community remains on edge, awaiting the jury’s decision that could carry profound consequences.

Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.