A MERSEYSIDE man has appeared at Crown Court charged with the murder of his stepson’s father and the attempted murder of the teenage boy.
Robert Pennington is accused of murdering Michael O’Connor and trying to murder his 16-year-old son, Liam O’Connor.
It is understood Mr O’Connor suffered up to 30 stab wounds after being attacked at his home in Conyers Avenue, Birkdale, on August 22.
Pennington, of Walnut Street, Southport, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court via video-link from Manchester prison for a plea and case management hearing.
Wearing a grey suit and white open-necked shirt, he spoke only to confirm his name.
Keeping his head bowed during the short hearing, Pennington did not enter a plea.
Richard Pratt, QC, asked the court to adjourn the hearing so further medical reports could be obtained.
Judge Gerald Clifton agreed to adjourn the hearing until January 23.
A trial date had already been fixed for February 2.
