Trial of woman accused of killing daughter wrapping up

The judge deciding the fate of Lisa Batstone, the woman accused of killing her daughter Teagan, is hearing closing arguments this week.

The eight-year-old girl was found dead in Batstone's trunk in December 2014. In court, experts testified Teagan died of asphyxiation.

Batstone is facing a charge of second-degree murder in connection with her death.

Closing arguments began Monday, with defence lawyer Tony Paisana arguing the Crown has not proved beyond a reasonable doubt Batstone intended to kill Teagan.

Paisana argued Batstone was intoxicated but loved her daughter dearly. 

He told the judge her motivation was altruistic, wanting to protect her daughter. He also said once she realized what she had done, she tried to kill herself.

Justice Catherine Murray questioned that, citing Batstone's statement to police, which read in part: "I wanted to die, I didn't want to abandon her and leave her to him."

The defence argued the intent of Batstone's admission wasn't to deny custody to the father but was part of a confusing statement that showed she was still in shock. 

Batstone sat in the prisoner's box in a pink button-up shirt and didn't make eye contact with family members and church community members in court.

Closing arguments will continue Tuesday, with a decision expected in the coming months.