A notorious murderer in South Australia has received one of the longest prison sentences in the state’s history, prompting a shocking outburst in court. Keith Yandle, 48, was sentenced to a minimum of 32 years for the shooting death of Steven Murphy at Yandle’s property in Kudla, located north of Adelaide. The judge condemned the act as “calculated, ruthless and inhumane.”
The incident occurred in 2023 when Murphy, a father of two, was found by Yandle after having broken into his shed. Disturbing CCTV footage revealed that when confronted, Murphy was unarmed and appeared to be cowering in fear. Rather than call the authorities, Yandle shot Murphy four times and callously watched him die.
Following the verdict, Yandle responded with a tirade filled with expletives, expressing contempt towards the court and its proceedings. Meanwhile, Sean Murphy, the victim’s uncle, shared his anguish and anger regarding the brutal act. He labelled Yandle a “worthless grub,” asserting that he would spend the rest of his life alone in prison, reflecting on the impact of his decision to take Steven’s life.
Sean Murphy emotional recounted holding his nephew as a baby, remembering him as a kind and beautiful individual whose life was unjustly cut short. Over a month after the murder, Murphy’s body was unearthed from a pit within the shed.
Despite Yandle’s family support, none were present for the sentencing, where the judge remarked that Yandle would be nearly 80 before he is eligible for parole. In a poignant statement, Sean Murphy concluded that while the court case might be over, the memory of Steven would endure through his children and the memories cherished by family and friends.