LAWYERS for a man accused of the "random and senseless" murder of an 83-year-old at Charlestown last year have raised an issue with his fitness to stand trial.
Graham John Norman, 53, remains behind bars and has not entered a plea to a charge of murder over the alleged unprovoked attack on Peter Caldwell in an underground car park between Library Lane and the Pacific Highway.
Norman, of Fowler Street, Hamilton South, is also charged with wounding Mr Caldwell with intent to rob him while armed with a knife during the alleged attack about 9.40am on August 20.
Mr Caldwell was allegedly stabbed multiple times and, despite the best efforts of bystanders, died before paramedics could arrive.
A knife was found at the scene.
Norman's matter was mentioned in Newcastle Local Court last week, when his solicitor, Kristy Wade, raised an issue with his fitness to stand trial.
Ms Wade said Norman would be assessed by a defence psychiatric expert in late June and then a prosecution expert two weeks later.
Those expert reports are expected to inform any discussions between the parties as to how the matter will proceed.
The matter was adjourned to July 22.
The 53-year-old had been the subject of an intense manhunt, which included police locking down nearby schools and aged care facilities, before he handed himself in to Newcastle police station about 1pm.
Police said at the time they had identified the alleged attacker during the three hours he was on the run and were close to apprehending him when he turned himself in.
