Murder suspect's mental health evaluated

EPHRATA - The Moses Lake man accused of allegedly killing Tracy C. Fullbright will undergo a mental health evaluation at Eastern State Hospital.

Adrian Rodriguez, 29, is currently charged with first-degree murder and first-degree kidnapping.

According to court documents, the defendant reportedly left a voice message for his attorney, Michael Morgan, requesting a mental health evaluation.

"The defendant complained about specific issues regarding his mental acuity which in my 26 years of experience raised concerns about the defendant's ability/competence to assist his counsel in preparation for trial," Morgan wrote.

Morgan also stated that Rodriguez has been guarded about his mental health issues and his overall intelligence.

Morgan wrote it is possible Rodriguez's mental state had worsened while in custody over the last several months.

Rodriguez's trial, scheduled for later in June, has been postponed and a review hearing is scheduled for July 16.

According to the police report, the alleged killing stemmed from a confrontation between Rodriguez and Fullbright. Rodriguez reportedly suspected Fullbright of touching his daughter inappropriately.

Rodriguez allegedly punched Fullbright several times before binding and gagging him with bandanas and duct tape.

Fullbright was reportedly taken to a spot near Road 10 Northeast and Road L Northeast where Rodriguez allegedly shot him, according to court documents.

A witness at the scene reportedly heard Rodriguez fire two volleys before he returned to the vehicle.

Rodriguez allegedly told a second witness that he had fired until the gun jammed.