Harley Lawrence homicide accused return to court in June

Two men charged in the death of a homeless man made a brief appearance in court today in Kentville.

Kyle Fredericks, 25, and Daniel Surette, 26, are both charged with first degree murder in the death of Harley Lawrence. 

Lawrence was found dead last October in a burned out bus shelter in Berwick.

Lawrence’s brother Ron said his family has always been there for him even after his death.

"We're trying to hold it together," he said. “There's a lot of stuff to take in, knowing that somebody actually did something to my brother now and it's nice to see the support everyone's giving us."

Fredericks and Surette also had supporters in the courtroom Monday.

At one point in the courtroom, Surette looked at his emotional mother and said "I'm sorry" before he began to cry.

Friends of Fredericks waited outside to say hello to him.

One month after the two were charged, Ron Lawrence said he still feels sympathetic for their loved ones.

However, he says he hopes justice will be served for his brother.

"The people that done this to him is finally [going to] be held accountable for what they did. And he'd be proud of that."

Karen Graves had a few words for Ron Lawrence. Her son Josh died from a drug overdose three years ago.

Fredericks was charged in that case with criminal negligence causing death. He was later acquitted.

"I just gave him my condolences and told him who I was and that we're supporting them and we'll be there for the family every step of the way," she said.

The case was put over Monday while the defence continues to seek disclosure.

The next court date is June 24. 

Until then, the town of Berwick plans to unveil a memorial garden at the funeral home in Lawrence's honour.