FRESNO (KMJ) — The man accused of committing the Downtown Fresno shooting spree appeared in court Thursday morning to face those allegations. On the list of charges were three murders, three attempted murders, and two other felonies.
The last time Kori Ali Muhammad appeared in the courtroom it was to face the separate Motel 6 murder allegation (click here to read more). His appearance this time was equally as vocal.
“Great ideas will turn America into a lake of fire,” he shouted soon after the arraignment began.
“Sir, this is a court proceeding,” responded Judge W. Kent Hamlin.
The hearing continued, with the court deciding that the arraignment should be pushed back. The judge allowed proceedings to be suspended under section 1368 of the Penal Code, which covers competency to stand trial based on the defendant’s mental condition.
Seven Fresno County Sheriff’s Deputies were inside the room at the time. With a yellow jumpsuit on and a chain around his waist, the 39 year old suspect’s face remained blank while the judge finished up proceedings.
“Pray for the missing black women and children in America,” shouted Muhammad as he was being led out. “Let black people go with reparations.”
If convicted of the eight felonies levied against him, the District Attorney’s Office says he faces a sentence of life in prison or death.
The men who lost their lives Tuesday morning were all white, prompting the DA’s Office to file a special circumstance based on their race. That was in addition to a second special circumstance, as he is said to have committed multiple murders.
“At this point all we really want to know is what his state of mind is, and whether he’s competent to continue proceedings,” public defender Eric Christensen told the awaiting media after the arraignment.
“Based on our conversations with him and all the other factors, including his behavior in court, I think there are significant mental issues.”
The arraignment will be continued on May 12th, the same date as the arraignment for the previous Motel 6 murder Muhammad is also alleged to have committed.
“We expect them to consolidate it,” said Christensen.
In a statement the family of one of the victims, Zackary Randalls, expressed thanks to both Fresno Police Department and the Fresno County District Attorney shortly after the charges were announced. “They speak for us and all the other victims of this terrible crime. We appreciate them, and the entire community for their support.”
Hear the report from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
