Man accused of Coles Bay home invasion, arson pleads not guilty

Jason Robert Burns, 33, has pleaded not guilty to charges stemming from an alleged violent home invasion and arson in Coles Bay. Burns appeared in Launceston Magistrates Court facing multiple charges, including aggravated armed robbery, aggravated assault, motor vehicle stealing, and arson.

Police allege that Burns was one of three men involved in a brutal attack on a 76-year-old man at his Coles Bay home on July 11. The victim, Grant Whelan, was reportedly tied up, had firearms stolen, his car taken, and his house set on fire during the incident.

Mr. Whelan required hospitalization and spent six days at the Royal Hobart Hospital following the attack. Appearing via video link from prison, Burns entered his plea through his lawyer. The court heard that the defense argued against the charges, leading to Burns being remanded in custody.

Burns was arrested along with two other men, Charlie Hills, 29, and Hayden Morrison, 33, who face similar charges. Mr. Hills has also indicated he will plead not guilty and was granted bail, while Mr. Morrison is due back in court soon. The missing firearms remain unaccounted for, and police are seeking public assistance.

In the wake of the incident, the Tasmanian community has shown significant support for Mr. Whelan. An online fundraiser has garnered over $100,000, and volunteers have assisted in cleaning up the remains of his burnt home. Mr. Whelan was released from the hospital on July 16.

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He is set to front the Supreme Court on September 25.