Jethro Gamueda pleads not guilty to murder of partner

Jethro Gamueda, 32, has pleaded not guilty to the domestic violence murder of his 20-year-old partner, Summer Fleming. Gamueda appeared via video link at Newcastle Local Court on Wednesday, September 23, following a failed bail application in the NSW Supreme Court.

The incident occurred on or about August 17, 2025, at a home in Rutherford, Hunter Valley. Ms. Fleming was found unresponsive in the early hours of the following day after Gamueda contacted emergency services to report she was not breathing. Prosecutors allege the relationship was characterized by abusive and controlling behavior.

The Crown's case suggests that Gamueda may have caused Ms. Fleming's death through an act such as holding her in a position that led to asphyxiation. During previous proceedings, it was noted that Gamueda had taken photographs of Ms. Fleming in a “highly unusual position” in the bedroom on the night of her death. Gamueda will face the NSW Supreme Court later this year to receive a trial date.