The murder trial of former Jetstar captain Greg Lynn has been delayed until next week after the jury was discharged before the case even began.
Jurors were told on Friday morning matters had arisen which had caused the need for them to be discharged.
Lynn, 57, of Caroline Springs is accused of murdering Russell Hill, 74, and Carol Clay, 73, in March 2020.
Former Jetstar pilot Greg Lynn enters the Supreme Court of Victoria to commence his trial on Thursday
Lynn is accused of murdering Carol Clay (left) and Russell Hill on March 19, 2020
Seated at the rear of the court, Lynn, who was dressed neatly in a suit and spectacles, listened intently as the jury of eight men and six women were told to go home.
‘It’s my melancholy duty to explain to you that you’ve now been discharged as a jury,’ Justice Michael Croucher said.
‘I won’t go into the details as to why. I’ve taken the view in consultation with the parties that it’s appropriate you be discharged and a new jury be empanelled.’
On Thursday, he had stood before them and formally pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder.
The trial is expected to go for up to six weeks when it eventually gets underway again.
This jury was told about 100 witnesses would be called to give evidence.
At its conclusion, the jurors will have the option to acquit or convict him or return a guilty verdict on the alternate charge of manslaughter.
Greg Lynn has pleaded not guilty to murder
Lynn’s wife Melanie sat in the court on Friday
Greg Lynn had been a pilot working for Jetstar at the time of the alleged murders