NSW Execution: Man Jailed for Rural Killing

A man has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for the murder of David Collisson in rural New South Wales, Australia, in September 2023. Eric James Forrest, 35, was found guilty of a “brutal and cold-blooded act” after shooting Collisson multiple times and attempting to conceal the body.

Eric Forrest Sentenced in David Collisson Murder

Eric James Forrest was convicted of murdering 53-year-old David Collisson on a property near Mudgee, in central western NSW. Hours before the shooting, Forrest photographed himself with a double-barrelled shotgun, the weapon later used in the crime.

During the encounter, Forrest reportedly asked Collisson, “You want to treat me like a f***ing gronk?” Collisson pleaded for his life, stating they were like brothers and he loved Forrest, but the gunman proceeded to shoot him in the chest or shoulder.

A witness described Collisson rolling on the ground and making a “horrendous squealing noise” before Forrest reloaded the shotgun and chased after him, shooting him twice more as he attempted to escape. Forrest then moved Collisson’s body into a hollow tree stump and set it on fire.

The gruesome details were presented in the NSW Supreme Court as Justice Dina Yehia handed down the 30-year sentence. The motive for the unprovoked murder remains unclear, though the judge determined Forrest was angry with Collisson shortly before the initial shooting.

“Once that shot was discharged, the offender persisted in pursuing the deceased and discharged the firearm again in what was a brutal and cold-blooded act,” Justice Yehia stated.

Collisson’s family described their grief and devastation. His son told a psychologist the violent loss of his father had caused him to question his own safety and trust. The family was unable to bury Collisson’s body due to the extensive damage caused by the fire.

Justice Yehia acknowledged the family’s loss, stating that no sentence could adequately reflect the value of Collisson’s life. Forrest will be eligible to apply for parole after serving a minimum of 20 years, at which point he will be the same age as Collisson was when he died.