“I killed him, but I didn’t murder him” : Gregson

The courtroom and a second overflow room were packed Thursday morning at the trial for Kevin Gregson. The man charged with first degree murder in the stabbing death of Ottawa Police Constable Eric Czapnik. Gregson, an ex-Mountie told the jury and Czapnik’s family he did kill him, but he did not murder him.

Kevin Gregson took the stand as the defence’s first and only witness. On the stand he often went off on tangents while telling stories about his life in a way that sounded like he was speaking with close friends.

Gregson spoke about the night he tried to commit suicide on December 29, 2009. He used a mirror to try and slice his own throat before trying to get his hands on a gun.  

While watching Treehouse TV from his “sweet spot” on his couch, Gregson realized police usually hangout around hospitals. After driving to the hospital he found Czapnik’s cruiser and he threatened the officer with a fake gun telling the officer to get out and get on his knees.

At that point Gregson explained, Czapnik went for his gun and then punched him in the nose which led to the stabbing.

Gregson then said, “I did it, but I didn’t do it. I didn’t murder him. That’s why I’m pleading not guilty.”

Gregson will return to the stand for cross-examination from the crown Friday morning.

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