Stefan Hannon-McGinn and Ethan Howe are facing a murder trial in New Plymouth following the fatal shooting and arson of a 55-year-old man’s property in Waitaanga.
The court heard that the victim, Bridson, was shot in the stomach at close range by Hannon-McGinn while Howe allegedly covered his back. Bridson was then dragged into his lounge, and his property was set on fire.
Details of the New Plymouth Murder Trial
Crown solicitor Prue Lange described the Waitaanga area, located west of Taumaranui, as the “Wild West,” noting it as a place with no cellphone coverage where poaching occurred.
The Crown alleges the killing followed ongoing tensions between Bridson and Hannon over issues including friends of Bridson hunting on surrounding land. These tensions reportedly escalated into a physical fight in August 2023, during which Bridson allegedly used a pitchfork and a bottle to attack Hannon.
On the evening of October 10, 2023, Bridson allegedly set fire to a Pajero that had been delivered to his house as part of a car deal. Following this, Hannon spoke to his son, Hannon-McGinn, who then traveled from the Hamilton area with Howe to the property.
Hannon-McGinn used his father’s 20-gauge shotgun to fire the fatal shot. While the exact timing is unclear, evidence indicates Bridson was already dead before the arson took place. Hannon reported the house fire to emergency services at 7:39 a.m.
The Crown presented alleged admissions of guilt, stating that Howe told his girlfriend they had “murdered someone.” Hannon-McGinn allegedly told a friend that Bridson was murdered for “f****** with” his father, grinning while stating he had “sorted it out.”
Defense Claims and Witness Testimony
Hannon-McGinn has pleaded guilty to a charge of arson but claims he shot and killed Bridson in self-defense. His lawyer, Nicola Manning, stated that while the death was a tragedy, the jury must determine if it was criminal.
Ethan Howe is defending charges of both murder and arson. His lawyer, Jessica Tarrant, acknowledged that Howe was present during the incident but argued that his intent and knowledge are the central issues.
The court heard testimony from Bridson’s brother-in-law, Anthony Kemp, who described the victim as an “all-around good person” and an inventor. Kemp noted that Bridson struggled with terminal cancer and drank heavily, admitting that Bridson could become “legless drunk” and say nasty things to people.
The trial, presided over by Justice Helen McQueen, is scheduled to last four weeks.
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