MIRAMICHI, NB – The first-degree murder trial of Curtis Wayne Bonnell could come to an end today.

Justice Fred Ferguson is expected to instruct the jury today and then the six man, six woman panel will begin their deliberations.

Seven weeks of testimony, involving more than 30 witnesses and many hours of videotape will give them plenty of food for thought as they ponder Bonnell’s fate.

The 32-year old Burnt Church man is accused of sexually assaulting and murdering his cousin Hilary Bonnell.

The 16-year old girl vanished in September 2009 and her body was later found in the woods of Tabusintac.

The accused has testified that he buried the teen, but says he doesn’t remember how she died.

The Crown is pointing to a videotaped confession in 2009 where Bonnell admits to smothering the girl during an argument and then disposing of her body.