LAFAYETTE — The suspect accused of fatally stabbing his roommate last month in their Purdue University dorm plans to use an insanity defense in court, records show.
A motion to determine Ji Min Sha's competency to stand trial was filed last week in the case against him, according to online court records.
WRTV has requested a copy of the filing.
Sha is being held without bond in the murder of Varun Manish Chheda, who officials have said was attacked without provocation.
If convicted of murder, Sha could face 45-65 years in prison.
Sha, an international student from Korea, reported Chheda's death to police himself shortly after he stabbed him to death, according to a probable cause affidavit.
Purdue University police found Chheda dead shortly after 12:44 a.m. Oct. 5 as they responded to McCutcheon Hall after Sha called 911.
When officers arrived, they found Cheda dead and sitting in a chair and Sha with what appeared to be blood on his clothing and body.
There was also a folding knife on the floor, which Sha later admitted was his. He told police he used the knife to kill Chheda while he was sitting in the chair where police found him, according to the affidavit.
An autopsy found Chheda died from "multiple sharp force trauma" injuries to his head and neck. His death was ruled a homicide.
Following the stabbing, Sha appeared in court and offered an apology to Chheda's family, saying "I am very sorry" and "I was blackmailed."
As of Monday, a trial date had not been scheduled for Sha. He is, however, scheduled to appear for a hearing on Dec. 2.
-
Fast-paced world, healthier snacks: How parents can win at snack time
In today’s fast-paced world, parents often grab whatever snack will quiet a hungry child. Chips, candy, and sugar-filled treats may do the trick in the moment — but often leave kids wanting more.
Senator's business receives bomb threat as attacks on Indiana lawmakers escalate
Andy Zay (R-Huntington) confirmed Friday that his Huntington business received a bomb threat Thursday, adding to a pattern of swatting attacks and threats targeting state legislators this week.
Whitestown homeowner charged with shooting cleaning worker bond set at $25K
Curt Andersen, charged with voluntary manslaughter in the fatal shooting of a cleaning worker in Whitestown, was released on $25,000 bond with strict conditions following his initial court appearance.
Lafayette officer-involved shooting leaves one man dead
A man died during an officer-involved shooting early Friday morning, following a traffic stop and confrontation with police at an apartment complex.
