Aaron Hegedus: Man alleged to have murdered Frank Smith will be committed next year

A 32-year-old man accused of killing an endeared member of the Wellington community in 2020 is one step closer to learning his fate in court. Here’s the details.

The man who is alleged to have murdered a much-loved handyman and grandfather in the state’s central west is set to be committed to the district court.

Aaron Hegedus, 32, was excused from appearing in Dubbo Local Court on Thursday after he was arrested by homicide squad detectives outside a Wellington KFC restaurant in October last year.

Police arrest Wellington man Aaron Hegedus outside a KFC restaurant on October 27, 2021. Picture: NSW Police

It followed an extensive 18-month investigation into the suspicious death of 48-year-old Frank Smith.

Hegedus was charged with murder and police allege he shot Mr Smith in the abdomen on the morning of April 27, 2020.

After the alleged shooting, Mr Smith stumbled into a front yard on Thornton St, and was later taken to Wellington Hospital where he died.

Frank Smith was shot in April 2020. Picture: NSW Police

The death sent shockwaves throughout the Wellington community with distraught family members of Mr Smith’s, searching for answers. A number of public appeals were sent out, asking for people to come forward with information.

Hegedus’ arrest followed a breakthrough in June last year with detectives from Strike Force Libani finding a .22 Ruger rifle in Wellington, was later examined by ballistics experts and linked to the alleged murder.

On Thursday, Shaun Towers appearing for the director said both parties have consented to a three month adjournment.

“Productive negotiations … have occurred,” Mr Towers said.

“A plea offer is forthcoming.”

Magistrate Gary Wilson accepted the adjournment, but was adamant about the matter being committed on the next occasion.

Hegedus will appear in court on February 2 next year.