Michael McGrath's family have welcomed today's verdict which found childhood friend David Benbow guilty of his murder – but with no body ever found, questions remain over where their loved one is.
Six years after the Christchurch builder disappeared and two trials later, Benbow, a former corrections officer, has been found guilty of killing Michael and now faces a life sentence.
Benbow appeared emotionless as a High Court jury delivered the verdict, while a small cheer erupted from the court's public gallery.
But despite his killer being caught, no body or murder weapon has ever been found.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Simon McGrath, Michael's brother, said his family and friends welcome the decision.
"It's a hugely bittersweet moment. Michael was a meticulous and talented builder who was hugely loyal, humble and unassuming. He is sorely missed," Simon told reporters.
"Michael has been taken away from us in the most cowardly, premeditated and murderous manner. The horrific nature, trauma and legacy of this despicable act will haunt our family for the rest of our lives."
For Simon, there is no doubt in his mind the verdict was the right one.
"I've never felt anything like it. It's been one hell of a ride over the past six years, and I'm just elated. Absolutely no doubt in my mind," he said.
"It's a just verdict. There's absolutely no doubt and everyone that knows Michael, there's absolutely no doubt in our minds it's a just verdict."
Simon said now the family can try to move on with their lives but he had one question for Benbow: "Where is Michael?"
The Crown alleged Benbow murdered Michael out of anger and jealousy that he started a romantic relationship with his ex-partner Joanna Green.
Crown prosecutor Barnaby Hawes claimed Benbow shot McGrath with his .22 rifle after inviting him to his home to help shift railway sleepers the same day his friend disappeared. Benbow's rifle also went missing and has never been found. Benbow had a CCTV system set up at his property, but it was turned off that day.
In 2019, Benbow was charged with Michael's murder.
After the verdict, police said they hope Thursday's outcome will bring comfort to the McGraths family.
"We knew that no outcome today was going to bring Michael back to his family. My one hope is that they can now start to move forward and process their loss and grief of their loved one, their son, their brother, their friend, their partner," Detective Inspector Kylie Schaare said.
"We would have loved to return Michael to his family, I think they would really want to lay him to rest with some dignity and respect. I am hopeful that could happen at some stage, but I think that it is fairly obvious that it's in the hands of the person [Benbow].
"Today is about Michael and his family."
Schaare wouldn't comment on whether police will consider making e a deal with Benbow for Michael's whereabouts.
