LICKING COUNTY, Ohio (WSYX) — The man charged in connection with the deadly New Albany warehouse shooting will appear in court Thursday for a second competency hearing.
28-year-old Bruce Foster III was charged in February’s shooting at the KDC/ONE warehouse in New Albany that resulted in two deaths and four injuries. Police say Foster had been working at the facility for several hours before opening fire on his co-workers.
The court is expected to decide whether Foster is competent to stand trial.
During a previous hearing in March, prosecutors requested a second mental examination for Foster. This request followed a psychiatric exam conducted by Foster’s defense team, which concluded that he required additional medical treatment to assist in his defense. The defense argued that hospitalization was necessary for Foster to meaningfully participate in a trial.
“We think it’s likely to say the same thing. The prosecutors want to be cautious and want a second opinion,” Foster’s defense attorney, Brandon Shroy said about the potential outcome of a second evaluation.
Foster’s mental health history is expected to be a focal point in the evaluations. An ABC 6 investigation revealed that Foster’s family had called 911 twice in 2022 due to concerns about his behavior.
During the calls, Foster’s sister informed dispatchers that he had been diagnosed with schizophrenia and split-personality disorder. His mother noted that some incidents in 2022 were triggered when Foster refused to return to a mental health facility.
During Thursday’s hearing, the prosecution is expected to present its competency report. Licking County Common Pleas Judge David Branstool will review both evaluations to determine Foster’s competency to stand trial. The hearing is scheduled for 1 p.m. in Newark.
