Trial of New Bedford Man Accused of Grisly Murder of Fairhaven Woman Begins Tuesday

The trial of a man charged with killing a 69-year-old retired school teacher in her Fairhaven home and stealing her jewelry is getting started.

Jury selection in the trial of 38-year-old Joshua Silva has been completed, with opening arguments scheduled for 9am Tuesday in Fall River Superior Court. Silva pleaded not guilty to murder and armed robbery.

Prosecutors say the New Bedford man entered the home of Joyce Howland in October 2013 then stole her jewelry and slashed her throat. Former Bristol District Attorney Sam Sutter said Howland's head was nearly severed.

Authorities say Silva had helped install insulation in the attic of Howland's home just days before she was found dead.