The trial of three men and a woman accused of murdering a 17-year-old is due to start today. Ricardo Elliot, Elexi Manny, Georgie Mears, and Connor Palfrey are all charged with the murder of Tristan Shae Kerr.
All four defendants pleaded not guilty to murder at a previous plea and trial preparation. Mr Kerr died after being found with stab wounds at a house in the old mining village of Abertridwr, Caerphilly, on Thursday, February 5.
Elliot, 26, whose address was given as HMP Parc, Manny, 24, of no fixed abode, Mears, 19, of Cavendish Close, Thornhill, Cardiff, and Palfrey, 24, of Aberfawr Terrace, Abertridwr, formally entered not guilty pleas to Mr Kerr’s murder. Don’t miss a court report by signing up to our crime newsletter here
Connor Palfrey (left) and Elexi Manny (right) have both been charged with the murder of Tristan Shae Kerr, 17.
A trial is due to take place at Newport Crown Court and is expected to last between four and six weeks.
In a tribute released at the time of his death Mr Kerr’s aunt, Rachel Spriggs, speaking on behalf of the family including his mum Claire Spriggs, said: “A deeply loved son, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend — a well-known and cherished character within his community.
“Tristan was handsome and quick-witted with a passion for motorbikes and adventure.
Tristan Shae Kerr, pictured with his mum Claire.(Image: Gwent Police)
“He had a spark about him that drew people in and an energy that filled every room he entered.
“He was truly his mother’s son: strong, brave, and full of warmth with a heart that cared deeply for those he loved.”
The 17-year-old was the oldest son and grandson in his family who was an “idol” to his younger brother Conan, Rachel Spriggs said.
A fundraiser was set up by a close friend of Mr Kerr’s to help towards funeral costs and raised more than £5,000.
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