By Canadian Press

First witness takes the stand at double murder trial of Ugo Fredette

Sep 9, 2019 | 2:41 PM

SAINT-JEROME, Que. — The trial of a Quebec man facing two counts of first-degree murder heard from a first witness today at a courthouse north of Montreal.

Ugo Fredette pleaded not guilty at the opening of his trial on two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of Veronique Barbe, his ex-partner, and Yvon Lacasse, a man Fredette is alleged to have killed to secure a getaway vehicle.

Christine Gouin, a neighbour of Fredette and Barbe, testified she witnessed a dispute between the former couple and had thought of calling police in the days leading up to the alleged attack on Sept. 14, 2017.

Gouin’s testimony continues today.

In its opening, the Crown told jurors that Gouin witnessed the beginning of the knife attack on Barbe, the mother of four.

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The Crown intends to call 25 witnesses, including the neighbour who allegedly saw part of the attack on Barbe. A child is also expected to testify via video conference.

The Canadian Press