Kevin Smith pleaded not guilty to murdering Daniel Pettersson at Jesmond

Police allege two men had previously dated a woman, before one of them stabbed the other in the chest at a home in Jesmond. Find out what happened in court.

The scene of the alleged crime on Michael St; Jesmond. Picture: Dan Proudman

A Newcastle man has denied stabbing a love rival to death, following an altercation at a Jesmond home early this year.

Kevin George Smith, 37, was charged with the murder of Daniel Pettersson on January 6, after police allege he stabbed the Wallsend man at the Michael St residence, a home belonging to the family of the alleged victim’s ex-girlfriend who was pregnant with his child at the time.

In Newcastle Local Court on Wednesday, Smith appeared via video link and pleaded not guilty to murdering Mr Pettersson.

Police allege Smith had also been in previous relationship with the woman and had moved into the Jesmond home to look after the woman’s dogs.

Daniel Pettersson, who died after being stabbed at Jesmond.

Kevin Smith is alleged to have stabbed Mr Pettersson. Credit: NSW Police

The scene of the alleged crime at Jesmond. Picture: Dan Proudman

They allege the pair had an altercation moments before the 34-year-old walked back into the home and suffered a single stab wound to the chest.

Police further allege Smith fled the scene, before paramedics arrived to treat Mr Pettersson. He was rushed to John Hunter Hospital but died on the way.

Strike Force Mantillus was set up to investigate, which prompted a six-day search to locate Smith who eventually handed himself in at Newcastle Police Station.

He’ll head to the Supreme Court in February for arraignment and to get a trial date.