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A collection of unanswered questions, despair, and heartache were the focal points in Thursday's supreme court trial, as Conor Grossmith watched his interrogation video from September 14th, 2012. Grossmith is facing a second degree murder charge for allegedly killing his mother Kathleen Gilchrist with a hammer while she slept.
Grossmith's questioning period with investigators was a lengthy and emotionally draining process. A video of the question period was submitted for evidence in the murder trial and was screened Thursday morning in court.
Initially, the officer questioning Grossmith was concerned for his apparent lack of sympathy and remorse following the violent incident. Not entirely understanding the gravity of the situation, Grossmith initially appeared to be void of emotion during questioning.
It wasn't until Grossmith heard the pre-recorded messages from his father and sister that he finally succumbed to his emotions.
Harry Grossmith, Conor's father, put his pain and heartbreak aside to console his son during this troubling time. He recognized that the incident in question was difficult and saddening for Conor as well. Harry reminded his son that he was still loved and supported: he stated in the recording that the man who allegedly murdered his mother was the not the respectful, kind, and selfless son that he knew.
Filled with sorrow, hope, and forgiveness, Conor's sister [whose name has been redacted by KelownaNow], also left a message, reminding him that she loved him infinitely, despite the pain she felt for the loss of her mother.
“I know you're in a dark place right now, I can relate... I know it's hard to admit that we're lost, but I believe in you. I know you have the strength to ask for help,” said the sister in her message to Conor.
Photo Credit: KelownaNow
Erupting in a fit of emotion, Conor begins to exhibit signs of remorse as he cries heavily. Despite the tears, Conor remained silent and insists that he doesn't remember the events that allegedly took place the evening before.
“I don't know why I did it or what happened,” said Conor. “I have all sorts of bad ideas of what I've done.”
Although Conor denies any recollection of the alleged murder, the police involved with the investigation believe he does remember particular moments of the attack, as he made several comments to the police during the booking period that suggest otherwise.
Despite the investigator's pleas with Conor to shed some light on the event, Conor continued to remain silent. When the investigator leaves the room momentarily, Conor breaks down and begins to cry violently.
What follows next is a sullen reminder of the pain still felt by this alleged tragic event. As depicted in the video, Conor is led out of the interrogation room, and as the crinkling and somber sound of handcuffs clasping around Conor's hands resonates through the court room, his father weeps for his son and his terrible loss.
The trial is expected to wind down Friday morning.
To view the previous article on this murder trial, click here.
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