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.
-
Indy nonprofit highlights suicide prevention, recovery month with free programs
Recovery Café Indy is offering special programming throughout the month to support individuals impacted by substance use, mental health challenges, incarceration and other life struggles.
Drew Brees returns to Purdue for the school's 25-year Rose Bowl reunion
Drew Brees returned to Purdue's campus Saturday to celebrate his greatest college feat, and, as with the team he led 25 years ago, he had plenty of friends giving an assist.
Clergy unite in Indianapolis to support communities in crisis
National civil rights leader Bishop William Barber joins Indiana clergy to confront poverty, injustice and strengthen support for struggling communities.
Avon and Brownsburg face off in rivalry game of the year
Brownsburg defeated Avon 55‑47 in their showdown, but for both sides, the game was about more than just the final score — it was about community, pride and tradition.
