Overview

• John Torney faces a committal hearing over the death of Emma Bates, with the proceeding focused on whether the case advances to trial.
• His mother told the court she called police after her son said Bates was breathing but not waking, and that he had told her he punched Bates three times.
• His brother testified he saw Bates with a swollen, bloodied lip and described arguments, drug use, property damage, and raised fists in the days before her death.
• An aunt said she saw Bates with a cut above her eyebrow during a public altercation and recounted fearing Torney during a separate encounter.
• Prosecutors argue Torney owed Bates a duty of care due to their relationship and her diabetes, alleging gross negligence for not seeking help, which the defence disputes.