Second teen pleads guilty to Belanglo murder

David Auchterlonie

Killed in Belanglo State Forest … David Auchterlonie.

A second teenager has pleaded guilty to the murder of Bargo teenager David Auchterlonie in the Belanglo State Forest.

Last month, a male teenage relative of serial killer Ivan Milat pleaded guilty to murdering David with an axe blow to the head on November 20 last year.

Today, Cohen Klein, 19, also pleaded guilty, in Campbelltown Court today in a plea deal, which led to secondary charges of accessory after the fact and concealing an indictable offence being withdrawn.

Klein showed no emotion as his lawyer read out his plea.

Several members of Klein’s family were present.

Charges were dropped against a third accused in September.

David’s grandmother Sandra Auchterlonie said the guilty plea was a “bittersweet victory” for the family.

“I was surprised he pleaded guilty to murder,” Mrs Auchterlonie said.

“I thought he would have taken us all the way [with a trial]. We’re pleased but it doesn’t bring David back.”

The Auchterlonie family marked the first anniversary of the killing, and David’s 18th birthday on Sunday, with a visit to his grave.

Mrs Auchterlonie said many young people had come out to lay flowers and balloons on their friend’s grave.

“I really thank the young people for their loyalty and for David’s friendship,” she said.

“It helps us because I know he will never be forgotten – he will be remembered through his friends. It was lovely to see them with their flowers and cards and their little tributes in their own way.”

Mrs Auchterlonie said the day was marred, however, by some young people who drank at the grave site and left two shopping bags full of alcohol cans and bottles.

She said she was disappointed at their lack of respect on such a day.

Klein will appear at the Supreme Court on December 2 for arraignment.

Camden-Narellan Advertiser

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