Competency hearing scheduled to determine accused Seminole Heights killer
TAMPA (FOX 13) - The suspected Seminole Heights killers may or may not be fit to stand trial, and hearing was held Thursday morning to schedule another hearing.
Howell "Trae" Donaldson, III is accused of gunning down four people in Seminole Heights. His lawyers requested for the doctor involved in determining his competency to testify. The competency hearing is scheduled for June 29 at 9 a.m.
Prosecutors announced they will seek the death penalty in the case, but last month, Donaldson’s attorney, Charles Traina said his defendant didn’t understand the full extent of the situation or trouble he faces. He asked the court to evaluate his competency.
If Donaldson is found unfit to stand trial, he would be sent to a state hospital for treatment. When he becomes competent, he will return to court to face the murder charges. If he is found competent, the court will proceed with preparing for a trial.