Allan Francis Dunbar, 59, stands trial in the NSW Supreme Court, contesting accusations of murdering Shane Naylor, his ex-girlfriend’s new partner, after a history of conflict and personal animosity. The incident occurred on January 7, 2022, following previous altercations where Dunbar was allegedly assaulted by Naylor and his girlfriend, Erin Rogers.
During the prosecution’s opening statements, lawyer David Patch outlined the tension between Dunbar and Naylor, highlighting that Naylor’s relationship with Erin Rogers intensified Dunbar’s jealousy. It is alleged that Dunbar had feelings for Rogers and travelled to Sydney at her request but ended up in the hospital after being beaten up by the couple.
Patch indicated that a key witness would testify about Dunbar allegedly threatening Naylor before the latter’s death, stating that he intended to harm Naylor while expressing his determination not to leave Sydney without Erin. The prosecution claims that Dunbar’s animosity towards Naylor escalated further when Naylor reportedly took Dunbar’s gold ring, which was later found on Naylor’s body, confirming the personal stakes involved.
Witnesses described a violent struggle occurring outside a residence in Toongabbie, where some observed Dunbar striking Naylor. While the prosecution argues that this was indicative of Dunbar delivering a potentially fatal stab wound, it has been noted that the witness did not see a knife during the altercation.
Two sharp objects, a yellow box cutter and a blade, were discovered near Naylor’s body, but forensic tests showed that Dunbar’s DNA was not present on these items. In his defence, attorney Josh Brock maintained that Dunbar did not inflict the fatal injury, suggesting that another individual might have been involved. He also cited statements from Rogers that pointed to a third party who allegedly punched Naylor during the altercation.
Despite CCTV footage capturing Dunbar leaving the scene with dark stains on his shirt, which were later confirmed to be blood, no DNA was recovered from these stains at the time of his arrest. Prosecutors argue that this suggests Dunbar attempted to wash away evidence of his guilt.
As the trial proceeds, it remains to be seen how the jury will perceive the testimony and whether they will find Dunbar guilty or acquit him of the charges against him. The proceedings will continue tomorrow.