Andrew Lester's lawyer calls for a psychological examination

Andrew Lester's attorney has filed a motion in Clay County District Court for a psychiatric evaluation to determine his competency to stand trial. Lester, 85, is charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action in connection with the shooting of Ralph Yarl. According to court documents, Lester has lost more than 50 pounds, exhibited memory problems and confusion about court dates and basic facts. The motion argues that these health issues could affect Lester's ability to understand court proceedings or assist in his defense. The motion requests a report from the Department of Mental Health's psychiatrists or psychologists, including detailed findings and opinions on Lester's mental state, as well as recommendations for his treatment and detention pending trial. Yarl was shot in April 2023 after knocking on the wrong door of a Northland home. Yarl survived the shooting but endured a lengthy recovery from a brain injury sustained in the incident. The trial is set for October 7, 2024. Previous KMBC coverage of this caseJudge rules Andrew Lester will face trial in shooting of Ralph Yarl, 911 calls presented in courtWhat we know about the shooting of KC teen Ralph YarlKMBC 9 Exclusive: Ralph Yarl's aunt on the wounds that may never heal on Kansas City teenRalph Yarl speaks out for the first time since being shot while approaching the wrong Kansas City homeRalph Yarl talks about the shooting and his recovery in an interview with Good Morning America'Life and physical integrity at risk': Judge rules to partially close Andrew Lester case in shooting of Ralph Yarl'A racial component': Court documents detail charges against Andrew Lester, the man accused of shooting teenager Ralph YarlTwo of Andrew Lester's grandchildren offer different perspectives on the shooting of Ralph Yarl