Mudgee, NSW – A man has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for the brutal murder of David Collisson, 53, in a rural area near Mudgee in central western New South Wales. Eric James Forrest, now 35, was found guilty of the crime and received his sentence in the NSW Supreme Court, marking the culmination of a case that shocked the close-knit community and revealed a disturbing act of premeditated violence. The case highlights the devastating impact of unchecked anger and the enduring grief inflicted upon families affected by violent crime in Australia.
The court heard that Forrest had photographed himself with a double-barrelled shotgun just hours before confronting Collisson on a secluded hillside in September 2023. According to court documents, Forrest confronted Collisson, asking, “You want to treat me like a f***ing gronk?” Despite pleas from Collisson, who reportedly told Forrest they were like brothers and that he loved him, Forrest proceeded to shoot the older man. This details of the horrific event were laid bare during the sentencing hearing.
A Brutal and Unprovoked Attack
The prosecution presented evidence detailing the escalating violence of the attack. After the initial gunshot wounded Collisson, causing him to fall to the ground, Forrest pursued the injured man as he attempted to escape. A witness described Collisson rolling around and emitting a “horrendous squealing noise.” Forrest then reloaded the shotgun and fired two more shots, striking Collisson again. Justice Dina Yehia described Forrest’s actions as a “brutal and cold-blooded act,” emphasizing the persistence with which he continued the attack even after Collisson was already wounded and attempting to flee.
Following the shooting, Forrest moved Collisson’s body into a large hollow tree stump and set it on fire, attempting to conceal the evidence. This act further compounded the severity of the crime and caused immense distress to Collisson’s family, who were ultimately unable to recover remains suitable for a traditional burial. The Sydney Morning Herald reported on the family’s anguish over this loss.
The Search for a Motive
Despite the conviction, the precise motive behind the murder remains unclear. Justice Yehia noted that Forrest had been angry with Collisson for an unknown reason and had decided to kill him shortly before firing the first shot. The court heard no evidence of a clear dispute or provocation that would explain the level of violence displayed. This lack of a discernible motive has added to the sense of bewilderment and tragedy surrounding the case.
The investigation, led by the NSW Police Force, involved extensive forensic analysis and witness interviews. Detectives pieced together the events leading up to the murder, relying on the evidence found at the scene and the testimony of those who witnessed the aftermath. The investigation underscored the challenges of solving crimes in remote rural areas, where evidence can be scarce and witnesses may be limited.
Impact on Collisson’s Family
The murder has had a profound and lasting impact on Collisson’s family. His son, in a statement to the court, described the “profound loss” he feels and how the violent nature of his father’s death has shaken his sense of safety and trust. A psychologist who assessed the son reported that he now questions his own security and struggles to understand how someone could commit such an act of brutality. The family’s inability to bury Collisson’s remains has further compounded their grief, denying them the opportunity for a traditional farewell.
Justice Yehia acknowledged the family’s suffering, stating that “no gaol term, of any length, can return a loved one.” She emphasized the irreplaceable value of Collisson’s life and the devastating consequences of Forrest’s actions. Support services for victims of violent crime, such as those offered by Victim Support Services NSW, are available to help families cope with the trauma and loss.
Sentencing and Parole Eligibility
Eric James Forrest was sentenced to a minimum of 20 years behind bars, with a maximum sentence of 30 years. This means he will be eligible to apply for parole after serving 20 years. Remarkably, Justice Yehia noted that Forrest will be the same age as Collisson was at the time of his death when he becomes eligible for parole. The sentencing reflects the gravity of the crime and the need to hold Forrest accountable for his actions.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the prevalence of gun violence and the importance of addressing the underlying factors that contribute to such tragedies. While Australia has strict gun control laws, incidents like this demonstrate that further efforts are needed to prevent violence and support those affected by it. The NSW government continues to invest in programs aimed at reducing gun-related crime and providing support to victims and their families.
The next step in this case will be Forrest’s appeal process, should he choose to pursue one. Legal experts anticipate a thorough review of the evidence and arguments presented during the trial. The outcome of any appeal could have implications for the length of Forrest’s sentence and the broader understanding of the case.
This tragic event underscores the importance of community support and vigilance in preventing violence. If you or someone you know is affected by violence, please reach out for help. Share your thoughts and condolences with the Collisson family in the comments below.
