Accused Seminole Heights killer may be incompetent to stand trial

A neighbor remembers the accused Seminole Heights killer as a polite, nice kid who played basketball. But after his arrest on four murder charges -- which could send him to death row -- Howell "Trae" Donaldson III's attorneys believe he may not understand the gravity of what he's facing.

Attorney Anthony Rickman explains, "their client, this defendant doesn't understand the charges against him and unable to cooperate with his defense unable to assist his defense in representing him."

New court documents show the defense believes Donaldson may be unfit to stand trial and may need treatment at a state hospital.

For weeks, the Seminole Heights community was gripped with fear after a serial killer stalked the area for weeks killing four innocent people. There were candlelight vigils for the victims and marches to show unity and resilience.

Tampa police had very little to go on, except neighborhood surveillance video that showed a man in a hoodie flipping a cell phone and then, minutes later, running away.

Donaldson was arrested after a McDonald's manager turned over a bag containing a gun that Donaldson had asked her to hold for him.

Four months later, Donaldson's competency is in question. Doctors who talk to him will have the final say.

"If he's found incompetent it doesn't mean this case goes away. He doesn't walk free," said Rickman.

Instead Donaldson will be transferred to a state hospital for treatment until he is fit to stand trial.

A hearing is scheduled on Wednesday morning where two doctors will be assigned to evaluate Donaldson.