URGENT UPDATE: The trial of Eric James Forrest, accused of the shocking murder of David Collison, commenced today in the Supreme Court of Sydney. Eyewitness accounts reveal a chilling exchange just moments before the alleged crime, raising urgent questions about the events leading to Collison’s death.
According to Crown Prosecutor Emma Blizard, on September 24, 2023, Mr. Collison was at a farm near Mudgee for a meeting to collect opals. Eyewitnesses report that during a confrontation, Mr. Collison told Forrest, who was allegedly brandishing a sawn-off shotgun, that he “loved” him “like a brother.” This moment of apparent camaraderie quickly turned deadly when Forrest allegedly shot Mr. Collison three times.
The jury was informed that blood evidence, dubious financial transactions on Mr. Collison’s bank card posthumously, and eyewitness statements are critical to the prosecution’s case. Blizard emphasized, “The evidence will show that Mr. Collison was hunted down like a dog.”
On the evening of the alleged murder, Mr. Collison, along with a farm manager and a worker, went to check on a grass fire at a remote location known as School Hill. Moments after they arrived, Forrest appeared, shotgun in hand, reportedly aiming it at Mr. Collison, who responded with pleas for mercy. Eyewitness accounts claim Collison raised his hands and said, “Please don’t” and “Eric, I love you like I love my brother.” Tragically, Forrest then allegedly fired, hitting Collison in the neck.
The farm manager, who tragically passed away in an accident in 2024, was said to have told others that Forrest “shot Collison in the face” and “hunted him down like a dog.” The harrowing details continue, as the prosecution alleges that Collison’s body was later concealed in a hollow tree trunk and set on fire following the murder.
Mr. Collison was not reported missing until October 15, 2023, leading to a police investigation. Search teams discovered the charred remains in the tree trunk, where forensic experts identified human bone fragments and teeth among the ashes.
According to the Crown, on October 19, 2023, Forrest allegedly confessed to a friend about shooting someone and burning the body, leading to his arrest and murder charge on October 24, 2023.
In defense, Justine Hopper urged the jury to consider the credibility of the witnesses, many of whom have prior convictions and drug use histories. “This trial is about a very serious criminal offense,” she stated. “You need to apply your common sense.”
As the trial unfolds, the jury is tasked with evaluating the evidence and witness reliability, with proceedings continuing tomorrow, October 9, 2025. The emotional stakes are high as this case grapples with themes of betrayal, loss, and violence in a rural community.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story continues.
