Murder accused David Bourke unfit for court

JONATHAN CAMERON/Manawatu Standard

ALLEGED GUNMAN: David Bourke.

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The man accused of murdering his brother before sparking a two-day manhunt is still not well enough to appear in court.

David John Bourke, 46, of Wanganui, did not appear in the Wellington District Court today and was further remanded in psychiatric care until December 16, when his status will be reassessed. His December appearance will be in Palmerston North District Court.

Bourke's lawyer Steven Winter said: "It is suspected that situation [Bourke's status] might well improve."

Bourke is charged with the murder of his brother - Timothy Bourke, 49 - whose body was found with gunshot wounds in the back of Bourke's car after it crashed on State Highway 2, north of Norsewood in southern Hawke's Bay, last month.

He also faces charges of using a firearm against police, assault with a weapon, aggravated assault, attempted murder and driving dangerously.