A dramatic turn of events in a Christchurch court room, has seen a murder trial abandoned.

The trial of Peter Carroll for the murder of Marcus Tucker has been brought to a halt on its third day.

Mr Tucker was found beaten, bound and burnt on the shores of Lake Ellesmere in April last year.

Justice David Gendall said there was no other option and the case had to be adjourned for "legal reasons".

Family of Marcus Tucker were distraught leaving the court house.

Peter Carroll will face a new trial in July.