News of Dennis Oland being found guilty of second-degree murder in the death of his father, prominent businessman Richard Oland, spread quickly throughout the city of Saint John – where many were watching and waiting Saturday morning.

Richard Oland's murder has gripped the city since his body was found in a pool of blood in his office in July 2011.

"According to what I've read online today, I think most people were expecting that he would be found not guilty,” said Saint John resident Stacy Doucey. “Although some people know that he's guilty, or think they know he's guilty, they still thought he would not be charged."

"It's hard not to either take a side or say, ‘I don't know what's going on and I don't care,’ said Judith Meinert-Thomas, who attended the trial regularly.

The Oland’s are an establishment family in the history of the Maritimes, having founded Moosehead Breweries. Richard Oland left the family business in 1981.

Greg Marquis is a University of New Brunswick Saint John history professor specializing in the history of criminal justice. He's been following the trial closely and was in the courtroom for the verdict.

"Intellectually, I'm shocked,” said Marquis. “And emotionally, too. I wasn't prepared for that emotional reaction."

"I was sending a few messages out by Facebook and when lawyer friends of mine say that they're shocked, you know, when defence lawyer friends who have been in the business for 30 years say that they're shocked, you know it's a shocking verdict in the legal profession and I think in the community too."

Reactions on Saint John streets Saturday were mixed.

"A lot of friends I've seen post on Facebook are, 'that's good,' but a lot of us are surprised, as well," said one Saint John resident.

“I think the defence thought they were going to win, especially where they rested early,” said Saint John resident Emily Donner. “They didn't have some of their witnesses come on, so in that light it's kind of a surprise.”

Richard Oland suffered 45 blunt and sharp force blows to his head, neck and hands, although no weapon was ever found.

Dennis Oland was arrested in November 2013 and pleaded not guilty to the charge of second-degree murder.

All 12 jurors have recommended that Dennis Oland’s parole eligibility be 10 years, however the final decision rests with Justice Walsh.

Sentencing arguments are set for Feb. 11.

With files from CTV Atlantic’s Ashley Blackford and The Canadian Press.