Shane Helmbrecht, an Eau Claire man charged with the 2016 murder of his neighbor, has been found mentally competent to stand trial.
A judge ruled yesterday that Helmbrecht is now fit for trial, reversing an earlier decision that had deemed him mentally unfit.
After receiving treatment at a state hospital, Helmbrecht was transferred to a halfway house but fled last year.
Following a lengthy search, he was apprehended and returned to Eau Claire.
Doctors now believe Helmbrecht is capable of participating in his defense. His next court appearance is scheduled for next month.
