The man charged with killing a Calgary doctor last Thursday will be seeing a forensic psychiatrist to determine if he’s fit to stand trial.
Jin Qing Huang, 42, is charged with first-degree murder in the stabbing death of Dr. Tiejun Huang, 51. Police said it was a targeted attack as a result of a domestic dispute.
READ MORE: Calgary doctor killed in ‘domestic’ stabbing at his medical clinic, say police
A woman at the clinic was also injured and was treated in hospital and released.
During his second court appearance Friday morning, Huang’s lawyers asked that their client see a psychiatrist Monday due to concerns over his mental health and ability to understand the judicial system.
“Right now it’s just a concern that he understands the process, the roles of the Crown, the judge, the defence counsel,” defence lawyer Adriano Lovenelli said. “There are apparent mental health concerns, and they should be addressed right now before taking any instructions.”
READ MORE: Man charged in Calgary medical clinic stabbing
When a provincial court judge asked Huang if he understood the charge he’s facing in court Monday, he replied through an interpreter, “can I remain silent?”
If a forensic psychiatrist determines there could be a mental health issue, Huang could be ordered to undergo a 30-day psychiatric evaluation.
Watch below: Global’s coverage of a stabbing at the Perpetual Wellness Chinese Centre