Phillip O’Neill (70) appeared before Magistrate Cornelius Roos in the Secunda Magistrate’s Court on Friday, June 24 in connection with the murder of his wife, Hester O’Neill (49).
The matter was then moved to the Secunda Regional Court on the same day where O’Neill appeared before Magistrate Graham Cupido.
The reason for this was so that the murder charge against O’Neill can run together with another charge he is also facing.
This charge is known to the Ridge Times, however, the charge can not be mentioned until O’Neill pleads.
He has abandoned his bail application and will remain in custody.
The case has been postponed to July 20, for further investigation.
O’Neill’s family were present in the court proceedings.
It is alleged that an argument ensued between the couple at their home in Brandspruit Street in Secunda, at about 22:35 on the night of the murder (June 1).
According to police reports, Hester had allegedly told Phillip she wanted to leave him.
The police report stated that Hester was shot in the back of her neck.
Hester was certified dead on the scene.
A 9mm short Astra firearm licensed in O’Neill’s name and live ammunition were confiscated from the scene.
