UPDATE: A harrowing trial began today at the Supreme Court in Sydney, revealing the chilling final words of David Collison as he faced his alleged killer, Eric James Forrest. Eyewitness accounts describe a tense moment where Collison reportedly told Forrest, “I love you like a brother,” just moments before he was allegedly shot three times on a farm near Mudgee on September 24, 2023.
Crown Prosecutor Emma Blizard laid out the prosecution’s case, asserting that the evidence hinges on eyewitness testimony, alleged admissions by Forrest, and crucial blood evidence discovered in his vehicle. The trial, which commenced on October 8, 2025, paints a disturbing picture of events leading to Collison’s death.
According to the allegations, after arriving at the farm, Collison was left alone following a visit with his partner and friend. It is said that Forrest, along with two accomplices who had reportedly consumed meth, arrived shortly after. Witnesses recall a moment in the living room where Forrest brandished a double-barreled sawn-off shotgun, prompting Collison to jest, “Don’t point it at me like that, what are you going to do, shoot me with my own gun?”
The evening took a dark turn when Collison, the farm manager, and a worker went to check on a grass fire at an isolated area known as School Hill. In a shocking escalation, Forrest allegedly emerged from his car, shotgun in hand, and confronted Collison, who pleaded for his life. Eyewitness accounts claim Collison raised his hands and said, “please don’t” and “Eric, I love you like I love my brother,” before Forrest allegedly fired, striking him in the neck.
Witnesses reported hearing two additional gunshots as Collison attempted to flee. The farm manager, who tragically passed away in an accident in 2024, reportedly told others that Forrest “shot Collison in the face” and “hunted him down like a dog.”
In a gruesome twist, the Crown alleges that Forrest later moved Collison’s body to a hollow tree trunk at School Hill and set it ablaze. Collison was not reported missing until October 15, 2023, prompting a police investigation that led to the discovery of human remains in the ash-filled tree trunk.
Authorities emphasize that expert analysis identified 17 teeth and fragments of bone, including portions of the skull, vertebrae, and fingers. On October 19, 2023, Forrest allegedly confessed to a friend about shooting someone and disposing of the body in a log.
Defending Forrest, attorney Justine Hopper challenged the credibility of the witnesses, many of whom had criminal backgrounds and substance abuse issues. She urged the jury to “keep an open mind until you have heard all of the evidence,” emphasizing the serious nature of the charges.
The trial continues with the next hearing scheduled for October 9, 2025. As the case unfolds, the community remains on edge, waiting for justice in a case that has shocked many.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
