THE man accused of murdering a North Yorkshire woman is expected to go on trial in November.
Andrew Pearson allegedly imprisoned and killed Natalie Harker last October.
The 30-year-old, pictured below, was found dead in Brough with St Giles, near Catterick. She had previously been reported missing.
Pearson is accused of ambushing and abducting his former partner in the early hours of October 9 while she was on her way to work.
Previously, Judge Paul Watson QC said: "He took her to an isolated spot in local woods where he had previously set up a base, he is said to have killed her by compression of the neck with her face held down in water, in such a way that she was unable to get up."
Pearson, of Chestnut Court, Catterick Garrison, is expected to tell the jury that Miss Harker slipped and fell into some water before he rescued her and attempted to carry out CPR.
The trial was listed to take place earlier this year but had to be moved due to the ongoing Covid 19 crisis which resulted in all trial by jury cases being pulled from the court system.
Pearson's trial is listed to start on November 2.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article