The man accused of the rape and murder of a schoolgirl knew she would be home alone, a depositions hearing was told on Monday.
Christchurch roading worker Dean Stuart Cameron, 38, is accused of the rape and murder of Marie Davis, 15. Her naked body was found in the Waimakariri River in April, along with bedding, a bra, a rope and a latex glove.
A close friend of Miss Davis told the court what the pair did on the day she was last seen alive, Saturday, 5 April. The Crown alleges Mr Cameron raped and murdered her early the following morning.
The friend, who has name suppression, said the pair had watched a DVD and Miss Davis stayed the night but asked to be dropped home.
The friend told the court that Mr Cameron was present when Miss Davis said she would be home alone.
The friend said he had spent time with Miss Davis the night before she went missing.
He told the court they and another friend discussed plans for the following night and Miss Davis said she would be at home on her own.
He said Mr Cameron was in the house at the time of the discussion.
The hearing in Christchurch District Court is set down for 10 days. Thirty-three witnesses are expected to give evidence.
