Harley James Raithby Hoodless pleads guilty to fatally striking Shannon Finemore on Melbourne Cup day
A man has admitted to fatally punching another man on Melbourne Cup day, leaving him unconscious before he died days later in hospital.
A man has admitted to throwing a fatal punch that killed another man during a violent street brawl on Melbourne Cup day.
Harley James Raithby Hoodless was charged with causing the death of Shannon Finemore on November 3, 2020m during an altercation outside a Fortitude Valley apartment.
Mr Finemore, 37, suffered critical injuries as a result of the fight and died a week later in hospital.
Hoodless was accused by police of throwing the fatal punch during the fight, allegedly sparked after an “exchange of words” between Hoodless and another man.
During a brief arraignment at Brisbane Supreme Court on Thursday morning, Hoodless pleaded guilty to a single count of unlawful striking causing death.
Asked if he had anything to say following his conviction, Hoodless simply replied: “No.”
The court was told a further review needed to be scheduled for October as a pre-sentence custody report needed to be prepared.
Hoodless also had a further appointment with a prison psychiatrist that month, his barrister said.
“I would be concerned if this matter were to delay much longer,” a Crown prosecutor said.
Supreme Court Justice Melanie Hindman said all efforts should be made to keep the case continuing at a reasonable pace.
“If the doctor has already prepared a report, then it’s not like we’re starting from a zero position,” she said.
Hoodless’ matter will be reviewed again on September 13.