Worrell jury struggling to reach verdict

The jury hearing the case of a man charged with murdering a woman by deliberately driving his car into hers has told a judge it has having trouble reaching a majority verdict.

Tony Worrell, 50, of Swanson in West Auckland, has denied murdering Katie Powles, 26, who died when his car smashed into hers at Karaka, south of Auckland, on June 3.

He also denies causing grievous bodily harm to another motorist whose car he crashed into, and four charges of attempted intentional damage.

The jury of five men and seven women in the High Court trial at Auckland began their deliberations about 11.20am yesterday.

Just before 1pm today, they told Justice Pamela Andrews they were having difficulty reaching a united decision. But Justice Pamela Andrews encouraged them to try again. They have since broken for lunch.

- NZPA