Ohio Man Deemed incompetent to Stand Trial in I-80 Murder Case
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GRAND ISLAND, NE – A nebraska judge has ruled that James D. Thompson, Jr., of Elyria, Ohio, remains unfit to stand trial on multiple felony charges, including first-degree murder. The ruling, delivered by district Judge Andrew Butler on November 25th, means the legal proceedings against Thompson will be paused until his competency is restored.
Thompson is currently being held at the Lincoln Regional Center for evaluation and treatment.
Eleven felonies filed in Connection with Rest Area Attack
Thompson faces a total of eleven felony charges stemming from an incident on June 20, 2024, at the westbound Interstate 80 rest area near mile marker 316. The charges include first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, five counts of using a deadly weapon to commit a felony, first-degree assault, two counts of attempted robbery, and operating a motor vehicle to avoid arrest.
The incident involved a violent attack on a couple traveling in an RV camper. Thompson allegedly attempted to steal a Jeep being towed behind the RV.
Gary Weaver, 72, of Eureka, Missouri, was pronounced dead at a local hospital following the attack. His wife, Mary Weaver, 71, sustained life-threatening injuries and was hospitalized but has since been released.
Next Court Appearance Scheduled
Thompson’s next court appearance is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on January 20th.The purpose of this hearing will be to review his progress toward regaining competency.
| Charge |
|---|
| First-Degree Murder |
| Attempted First-Degree Murder |
| Using a Deadly Weapon to Commit a felony (x5) |
| first-Degree Assault |
| Attempted Robbery (x2) |
| Operating a Motor Vehicle to Avoid Arrest (Willfully Reckless) |
The determination of competency is a critical step in ensuring a fair trial. Defendants must be able to understand the charges against them and assist in their own defense.
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