A disgruntled patient accused of murdering a dentist while he was working at a California practice and shooting two other employees in a premeditated attack will undergo a second independent competency hearing, according to a story published on CBS 8.
Mohammed Abdulkareem.
During a minuteslong court proceeding on May 2, a handcuffed Mohammed Abdulkareem, 29, who pleaded not guilty in March to the murder of Dr. Benjamin Harouni, was heard yelling to the judge that he was fit to stand trial despite what his attorney believes. On February 29, Abdulkareem reportedly gunned down Harouni at Smile Plus Dentistry & Orthodontics in El Cajon, CA. The 28-year-old dentist died of his injuries there.
The court scolded Abdulkareem for his outburst, and another hearing was scheduled for July to discuss his second independent mental health exam. Abdulkareem remains in jail without bail, according to the story.
Families of Harouni and Abdulkareem were both present in court.
Dr. Benjamin Harouni.
Harouni's family said their lives have been on pause since his death. During the proceeding, Harouni's supporters wore shirts with his photo with the message #HeartsOverHate, a foundation the family started to inspire others to live and love like the dentist. The accused killer's family members locked hands while leaving the courtroom, according to the story.
For about six months, Abdulkareem allegedly repeatedly went to the dental practice to express his dissatisfaction with the dental treatment he received. During this period, Abdulkareem purportedly became erratic, leaving employees fearful of him.
In the late afternoon of February 29, Abdulkareem allegedly entered Smile Plus, said nothing, and immediately began firing his gun inside the practice. Despite attempts to hide behind a door, Harouni was shot multiple times.
Also, George Issain, the practice office manager, and Yarelli Carillo, the front desk administrative assistant, sustained nonlife-threatening injuries from the shooting.
If convicted of all charges, Abdulkareem faces more than 100 years to life in state prison.
