Christian Soto, suspect in Rockford attacks, to undergo mental fitness evaluation
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) - A mental fitness evaluation is requested for the man accused of killing four people and injuring seven others during attacks on March 27 in southeast Rockford.
Christian Soto, 22, appeared virtually April 15 from the Winnebago County Jail for his court appearance. Soto was supposed to be arraigned at Monday’s hearing, but the defense filed a motion to have Soto evaluated. Judge Schafer granted the motion saying she hoped a report would be available by his next court date on May 17.
Soto is the sole suspect in the deaths of 62-year-old Romona Schupbach and her son 23-year-old Jacob, 49-year-old mail carrier Jay Larson and 15-year-old Jenna Newcomb. Seven others, including two teenage girls, were sent to the hospital following the attacks in a southeast Rockford neighborhood. He faces four counts of first degree murder, seven counts of attempted murder/intent to kill and two counts of home invasion.
According to court records, Soto claimed he was given marijuana that was laced with something and became paranoid, spurring the 20-minute crime spree.
Monday marked Soto’s third appearance before a judge. In his last court appearance on April 2, Soto caused a scene, requiring the room to be cleared. A judge denied him pretrial release, calling him a “threat to the community.”
More stories
Suspect in Rockford attacks causes courtroom scene, deemed ‘threat to community’
Stabbing, home invasion suspect appears in court
Timeline of Rockford stabbings, attacks
Investigators: 4 dead, 7 hurt after Rockford stabbing attack
Copyright 2024 WIFR. All rights reserved.
