Competency Hearing Set For Subject in Reservation Slaying

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A Mandaree man accused of killing another man with his bare hands on the Fort Berthold Reservation is scheduled for a hearing on whether he's mentally competent to stand trial.

Marcel Chase is to appear before federal Judge Daniel Hovland in Bismarck on Oct. 14. Hovland earlier ordered Chase to undergo a psychiatric evaluation, after defense attorney Paul Myerchin said Chase plans to rely on an insanity defense.

Chase is accused of killing Toby Young Bear last December during a fight while the two men were using methamphetamine. Chase then allegedly put the body in the trunk of a car.

A grand jury indicted Chase on a second-degree murder charge. A magistrate judge has entered a not guilty plea on Chase's behalf. He could face life in prison if convicted.