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Shocking Opening Day in Sudbury Murder Trial Reveals Gruesome Details

2024-10-02

Shocking Opening Day in Sudbury Murder Trial Reveals Gruesome Details

In a trial captivating the attention of the public and drawing gasps from the jury, the shocking details of a brutal murder were laid bare on Wednesday in Sudbury. Felicity Altiman, 43, is facing a second-degree murder charge in connection with the death of 75-year-old Robert 'Bob' Keskinen, whose lifeless body was discovered in his Kathleen Street apartment on Boxing Day 2020.

Graphic Testimony Data Shock Reigns

The assistant Crown Attorney, Brittany Butler, warned jurors of the graphic nature of the evidence they were about to encounter. The courtroom was presented with harrowing testimonies, video evidence, DNA analysis, and fingerprints linking Altiman to the gruesome crime scene. Prosecutors revealed that Keskinen suffered a shocking 103 stab wounds, an act committed during the early hours of December 25, 2020.

Butler detailed the horrifying findings from the autopsy, highlighting not only the severe wounds but also the grotesque manner in which the victim's scrotum was severed and stuffed into his mouth. The courtroom’s tension was palpable as Butler recalled Altiman's alarming statements regarding Keskinen, indicating that she’d previously shared intentions of stealing from him.

The Heartbreaking Testimony of Family

The first witness called to the stand was Richard 'Allan' Keller, Keskinen's cousin. Keller painted a picture of a man known for his kindness. He recounted their childhood in Creighton and described their unbroken bond despite life's challenges. "Bob was a generous spirit," testified Keller, noting how often he would help Keskinen with daily tasks and would ensure he safety-checked his apartment door, which had been a target for thefts.

Keller shared the tragic moments leading up to his visit on Boxing Day. After receiving no response from Keskinen on Christmas Day, Keller decided to check in on his cousin. Upon entering the apartment, he was met with a disarray and chilling silence. "When I opened the door, it was a real mess," Keller recalled. His somber expression deepened as he recounted discovering Keskinen's body slumped against the wall.

An Unfolding Mystery

The trial continues to unravel the shocking narrative surrounding Keskinen's death, with the prosecution not withholding from depicting the horrifying reality of the crime. Several items were reported missing from the apartment, including a new pair of winter boots and beer bottles, provoking further speculation about what transpired that fateful night.

Keller’s emotional testimony highlighted the unsafe living conditions experienced by Keskinen and the unfortunate reality that led to this tragedy. Defense attorney Steven Hinkson prodded Keller for details about his cousin's well-known generosity, as he attempted to establish context regarding the circumstances surrounding his death.

As the courtroom prepares for more powerful testimonies over the upcoming weeks, this case starkly illustrates the fragility of life and the profound impact of fear and violence within communities. The trial is expected to stretch over four weeks, with the Crown anticipating calling over a dozen witnesses to piece together the chilling puzzle of this murder case.

Stay tuned as this harrowing story of betrayal and tragedy continues to unfold!