Psychiatric report still pending in grandfather murder case

The psychiatric evaluation of a man charged with allegedly murdering his grandfather last year is still pending.

Charles Laxton, who faces a charge of murder, appeared before Justice Usaia Ratuvili yesterday for a mention to check on the status of his psychiatric assessment at St Giles Psychiatric Hospital.

It is alleged that on July 12, 2025, at Navokadamu Settlement in Lutu, Wainibuka, Laxton used a cane knife to strike his grandfather, causing serious injuries that later led to his death.

It is further alleged that he then dismembered the body and placed it in a sack.

The psychiatric evaluation was ordered by the court in November last year. Since then, State Prosecution has repeatedly informed the court that further assessments are required before a report can be finalised.

Yesterday, State Prosecutor Naazish Ali told the court that more time was needed as St Giles Hospital continued to assess the accused.

The matter has been adjourned to February 10 for an update on the psychiatric evaluation.