Marine Vet Found Incapable of Standing Trial for Bar Shooting

A judge has ordered a Marine veteran, Nigel Max Edge, charged with three counts of first-degree murder, to undergo psychiatric treatment. This decision came after multiple mental health professionals determined Edge lacks the capacity to understand trial proceedings or effectively assist his lawyers. The case was scheduled for a hearing to determine if the prosecutor would seek the death penalty.

Three independent evaluations, including one requested by the prosecution, concluded that Edge is currently unable to proceed to trial. Superior Court Judge Jason Disbrow ordered his transfer to Cherry Hospital, a state psychiatric facility in Goldsboro, for treatment.

The state's mental health expert believes Edge may regain capacity through appropriate treatment, such as medication and counseling. Edge, 41, faces charges related to a September 27 incident where authorities allege he fired upon a dockside cocktail bar from a boat, resulting in three deaths and several injuries.

This court action effectively suspends further litigation until Edge's mental capacity is restored. Edge remains in custody during treatment, which has an indeterminate duration. He previously served in an elite sniper unit in Iraq and has a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder.