The man accused in a fatal shooting on Bethel Street nearly two weeks ago had his case bound over to the grand jury after a preliminary hearing in Christian District Court Monday afternoon.
Assistant County Attorney Maureen Leamy informed Judge Foster Cotthoff a charge against 26-year old Shakkory Willis needed to be amended from a robbery charge to first-degree burglary. Willis is also charged with murder and second-degree unlawful transaction with a minor in connection to the fatal shooting of 20-year old Corvyan Thomas at 1923 Short Bethel Street. 21-year old James Yates and 20-year old Lane Carter, along with three juveniles were also charged for their alleged involvement in the incident.
Hopkinsville Police Detective Randall Greene stated the incident started out as an attempted robbery of money and drugs and then led to 19-year old Dylan Stewart being shot in the leg and the death of Thomas. Detective Greene says Willis was identified as the shooter through a photo lineup.
Greene said Willis, Yates, and Carter, along with a 14-year old juvenile entered the house after Willis allegedly kicked the door in at the residence. He added that Willis then assaulted and shot Thomas three times.
Greene also testified that shell casings were collected at the scene.
After the detective was cross-examined by public defender Brandi Jones, Judge Cotthoff said he had found probable cause to send the case to the grand jury. He also left the bond set at $1 million cash.
