Bloomington man charged with parent’s deaths found fit for trial

Posted on November 18, 2016

By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – A man accused of stabbing and killing his parents earlier this year has been found fit to stand trial, for now.

Brian Petersen, of Bloomington, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of first degree murder for the deaths of Bruce and Nancy Petersen. A psychiatric report reviewed by McLean County Judge Robert Freitag Friday said Petersen meets the legal standard of fitness and understands the nature of the charges.

However, Freitag granted a motion by the defense to have another evaluation on whether Petersen was sane at the time he allegedly committed the crimes.

Another hearing has been set for Jan. 6.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].

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