The man accused of brutally murdering a 19-year-old New Jersey college student in a stabbing attack that prosecutors say lasted less than 10 minutes has been ruled mentally incompetent to stand trial.
Christopher Leahy, 31, is accused of stabbing Juniper Blessing more than 40 times inside the laundry room of an off-campus apartment complex near the University of Washington on May 10.
On Monday, a King County Superior Court judge ordered Leahy to undergo up to 90 days of competency restoration treatment after medical experts determined he is currently unable to understand the legal proceedings or assist in his own defense.
According to investigators, Leahy allegedly attacked Blessing before unplugging a surveillance camera inside the laundry room. Moments later, another student unknowingly held the door open for him as he walked out. After Leahy thanked the student and left, the student entered the laundry room, discovered Blessing's body, and immediately called 911.
Police said Leahy turned himself in to authorities in Bellevue five days later after surveillance images of the suspect were released to the public.
Leahy's attorneys have asked the court to seal portions of the case, arguing the records contain defense strategy and could reveal potential expert witnesses. His specific mental health diagnosis has not been made public.
He is expected back in court in September, when a judge will determine whether he has regained competency or requires additional treatment. Under Washington law, the competency restoration process can last up to one year.
Juniper Blessing, originally from New Jersey, was 19 years old and attending the University of Washington at the time of the killing.
LGBTQ+ advocates attended Monday's hearing, saying they will continue following the case and supporting Blessing's family throughout the legal process.
