Lucky Eagle Casino Shooting Suspect Pleads Not Guilty; Court Orders Psychological Evaluation
Suspect Enters Not Guilty Plea Amid Competency Questions
Keryan Rashad Jones, 34, the individual accused in the tragic shooting at the Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino that resulted in two fatalities last September, has formally pleaded not guilty to the charges against him. Concerns about his mental state have prompted his defense attorney to request a psychological assessment to determine if Jones comprehends the accusations he faces.
Details of the Court Proceedings
Jones, a former National Guardsman from San Antonio, appeared in court earlier this week via video from the Maverick County jail. He faces charges related to the deaths of retired US Customs and Border Protection agent Marcus Antley and Alicia Danielle Sanchez. Jones is currently held on a bond set at $5.1 million.
His attorney, Alfredo Padilla, petitioned the court for evaluations to assess Jones’s competency to stand trial and to explore his mental state at the time of the shooting. According to legal experts, certain mental health conditions, like schizoaffective disorder, may impact a person’s understanding of legal charges against them.
While the motion for a psychological exam was approved, prosecutors remain skeptical of claims regarding Jones’s insanity. They argue that evidence from recorded jail phone calls suggests he is mentally capable of understanding his situation, as such recordings are commonly used to detect feigned mental illness.
The Incident at the Casino on September 27
The shooting took place on September 27 at the Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino Hotel located in Eagle Pass near the Texas-Mexico border. The casino was hosting a special event featuring a giveaway for a new Mercedes E350, drawing a large crowd.
Witness accounts describe how Jones abruptly entered and began shooting, creating panic among attendees who sought cover under tables or rushed toward the exits. The attack tragically claimed the lives of Antley and Sanchez, while at least five others sustained injuries and were transported to hospitals in both Eagle Pass and San Antonio.
Aftermath and Manhunt
Following the shooting, Jones fled in a black Nissan Frontier pickup truck, triggering a multi-agency manhunt covering nearly 200 miles. He was captured the following day in Wilson County after a vehicle chase and was subdued with a Taser before being taken into custody.
Casino’s Response to the Tragedy
In response to the violent incident, the Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino has implemented enhanced security measures, including the installation of a concrete barrier at the entrance, aiming to prevent future tragedies and ensure the safety of patrons and staff alike.
