Two brothers have been charged in connection with the fatal stabbing of a teenager following a fight after the 2023 NRL grand final. Wesley Dates, aged 20, and his elder brother Peter Dates, 22, have been awaiting a decision from a jury at the NSW Supreme Court regarding the death of 18-year-old George Woods during a street altercation on October 1, 2023.
The jury was deliberating behind closed doors since the conclusion of the trial on May 21 but was dismissed on Wednesday due to their inability to reach a verdict.
During the trial, it was revealed that the Dates brothers had been consuming alcohol while watching rugby league with friends at an apartment in Miller, Western Sydney. The situation escalated when Woods and his friend, Joshua Ratu, 19, arrived and a confrontation occurred, leading to a physical fight between Peter Dates and Ratu. Subsequently, Wesley Dates became involved, admitting to fatally stabbing Woods and injuring Ratu.
Wesley’s defence claimed he acted in “excessive self-defence.” He has pleaded guilty to wounding Ratu with the intention of causing grievous bodily harm and to the manslaughter of Woods. However, prosecutors have countered this plea, arguing for a murder charge instead.
Peter Dates has pleaded not guilty to the charge of wounding Ratu with intent. He is alleged to have tacitly agreed with his brother to attack Ratu. The brothers are expected to return to court in July, at which point a new trial date may be established.
The legal proceedings underscore ongoing concerns regarding violence and public safety in the aftermath of such high-profile events. The community is now left waiting for the outcomes of these serious charges.