Leaf River man still deemed unfit for trial

OREGON – A man accused of stabbing a Leaf River couple last July remains in a mental health facility and unfit to stand trial, public defender Eric Morrow said Monday.

Police say Michael W. Mitchell, 27, broke into the home of David and Denise Zellers, 51 and 48, on July 3 and stabbed them with two knives he brought with him.

Mitchell is charged with four counts of attempted murder, two counts of home invasion and four counts of aggravated battery.

According to an evaluation by Dr. Jane Braden, Mitchell “has deficits that display and are consistent with dementia which impedes the ability to understand the court process ... It is highly unlikely Mr. Mitchell can be restored to competency. There is no treatment available.”

Another status hearing for Mitchell will be held in March.

The Zellerses have recovered from their injuries.