In Dawson City, Yukon, a man on trial for second-degree murder testified this week about the events leading up to the death of Kevin Edward McGowan in 2018. Kane Morgan admitted to causing McGowan’s death but pleaded not guilty to the charge, citing intoxication and lack of intent.
During the trial, Morgan expressed deep remorse for his actions and apologized to McGowan’s family. He recounted the events of the night, stating that he was heavily intoxicated and had consumed drugs before the incident took place. Despite admitting to causing McGowan’s death, Morgan claimed he had no memory of any altercation with the victim.
Morgan explained that he and McGowan had met just days before the tragic incident and had spent time together socializing. He described their interactions as positive and mentioned shared interests in conspiracy theories and martial arts. However, the night of McGowan’s death was hazy for Morgan due to intoxication.
Following McGowan’s death, Morgan fled to Whitehorse, feeling a sense of impending trouble after encountering police and paramedics at the scene where McGowan’s body was discovered. He eventually left for Vancouver but returned to the Yukon later, unaware of the gravity of the situation until his arrest in 2021.
Expert witness Dr. Shao-Hua Lu testified about the effects of drugs consumed by Morgan on the night of the incident, suggesting that paranoia and psychosis may have influenced his actions. Based on his assessment, Lu expressed doubts about Morgan’s ability to form intent to kill given his mental state.
The trial included cross-examination by the Crown prosecutor, Leo Lane, who raised questions about the consistency of Morgan’s statements and the accuracy of his clinical assessments. Closing arguments are expected to be presented later in the week, with the outcome of the trial pending further deliberation.
The case highlights the complex nature of criminal trials involving substance use and mental health issues, shedding light on the challenges of determining intent and culpability in such circumstances. As the trial progresses, the jury will have to weigh the evidence presented and consider the impact of intoxication on Morgan’s actions on the night of McGowan’s death.