Trial underway in pair of 2010 motorbike deaths on the Malahat
The trial for a North Vancouver man facing seven charges including two counts of criminal negligence causing death got underway yesterday in B.C. Supreme Court in Duncan.
Lucas Ian Brown made his first appearance in Duncan court to answer two counts of criminal negligence causing death, two counts of failing to stop at an accident scene involving death, two counts of break and enter, possession of stolen property over $5,000, and possession and use of a stolen credit card.
The charges arise from a Feb. 20, 2010 incident that led to the deaths of Saanich couple Martha Ralph, 56, and Larry Machnee, 59.
Ralph and Machnee were killed when their Yamaha touring motorcycle was struck near Bamberton by a 2007 Honda that had been stolen in North Vancouver earlier that day.
The driver fled the scene of the crash, police said at the time.
Brown, meanwhile, was arrested without incident near the Mill Bay ferry terminal and remanded into police custody.
Crown prosecutor Scott Van Alstine said the trial is scheduled for 10 days.
A jury heard opening words as well as statements from two witnesses Tuesday morning.
Proceedings resumed at about 2 p.m. after an extended lunch break.
The trial continues today.
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