The trial started this week for a British man accused of killing Olivia Pratt-Korbel, a 9-year-old shot dead inside her own home last year, in Dovecot, Liverpool.
The Guardian reports that Thomas Cashman, 34, is currently on trial at the Manchester crown court, accused of murder, attempted murder, wounding with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm, and possession of a firearm. He previously pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The jury, which consists of ten men and two women, was warned that the subject matter will be disturbing; the judge encouraged them to keep their emotions in check as they hear graphic details regarding the death of a child.
“Naturally, the death of a child, any child, is a sensitive topic and one where it is normal to experience an emotional reaction,” Mrs Justice Yip QC told the jurors, according to Sky News.
“It is very important for you to do your job as jurors you put those emotions aside so you can properly consider the case and the issues you need to consider.”
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As CrimeOnline previously reported, Olivia was killed inside her family home off Kingsheath Avenue on August 22, 2022, after two men ran into the residence while shooting at each other.
The child’s mother, Cheryl Korbe, tried to close the door on Cashman, who then allegedly shot her in the wrist while firing at the other man, identified as 35-year-old Joseph Nee.
Cashman continued to fire, police said, shooting Olivia in the chest, and causing fatal injuries.
Police said one of the guns used during the shooting, a Glock-type self-loading 9mm pistol, was used in previous crimes. The suspect also used a .38 revolver, which was identified by investigators as the weapon that shot Olivia.
In court Monday, Olivia’s parents and siblings were in attendance, as well as Cashman, who entered the courtroom surrounded by four officers.
The trial is expected to last around four weeks. Check back for updates.
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[Featured image: Family Handout]
