Mother of Jesse Baird Weeps as Court Hears Gunshots in Beau Lamarre-Condon Murder Trial

The mother of Jesse Baird, Helen Baird, became emotional and choked back tears as the jury in the Beau Lamarre-Condon murder trial heard recordings of the gunshots that killed her son and his boyfriend, Luke Davies. Lamarre-Condon, a former police officer, is accused of murdering Baird, a television presenter, and Davies, a Qantas flight attendant, at Baird's Sydney home in February 2024.

During the proceedings, Helen Baird was not present to hear the audio recordings of the fatal shots or Lamarre-Condon's account of the events. As a Crown witness, she was only permitted to testify after her own statement had been given. The jury heard CCTV footage captured three shots from Lamarre-Condon's service pistol outside Baird's residence on the morning of February 19. The first two shots were fired four seconds apart, with the third following 51 seconds later.

Crown prosecutor Brett Hatfield SC told the court that Lamarre-Condon fired the first shot into Jesse Baird's neck, the second into his temple, and the third into Luke Davies's head. The bodies of Baird and Davies were later discovered concealed in surfboard bags about 185 kilometers southwest of Sydney.

Lamarre-Condon has pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder and aggravated break and enter. His defense, presented by barrister John Stratton, claims Lamarre-Condon went to Baird's home to retrieve personal belongings and disguised himself as an Uber Eats delivery person. Stratton stated that Lamarre-Condon entered the residence when no one answered, and during a struggle with Baird, the gun discharged twice, fatally wounding Baird. He asserted that Davies then obtained the gun and, during a subsequent struggle, accidentally shot himself.

However, the prosecution has previously suggested Lamarre-Condon was obsessed with Baird and jealous of his relationship with Davies. The defense's account contrasts with the prosecution's narrative, where Davies is heard on a Triple Zero call saying, "Get out - f*** off." The prosecution also stated the fatal shot to Davies was fired through a bedroom door.

Helen Baird testified about her close relationship with her son, describing him as open about his sexuality and relationships. She stated that Jesse had informed her about Lamarre-Condon's "concerning behavior," including attempts to control his phone contacts and deleting messages, leading Jesse to believe Lamarre-Condon was becoming obsessive. Jesse had decided to cease contact with Lamarre-Condon in late 2023. Helen Baird also shared an incident where water was allegedly poured into the fuel tank of Jesse's new vehicle, an event the court has heard evidence suggesting Lamarre-Condon was responsible for.

Jesse's sister, Kourtnee Baird, also provided testimony. She recounted Jesse expressing fear of Lamarre-Condon, citing his access to weapons as a NSW police officer and his alleged attempts to manipulate Jesse's social media and contacts. Kourtnee last communicated with her brother via Instagram on February 18, 2024, the day before the shootings.

The trial, which is expected to last three months, is continuing before Justice Natalie Adams.