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Accused in double homicide in Calgary’s Coventry Hills found fit to stand trial

Emanuel Kahsai was arrested Nov. 13, 2015 in connection with the deaths of his mother, Selmawit Alem, and Julie Tran. File/Global News

A Calgary man accused of the fall 2015 killing of his mother and a woman she took care of in Coventry Hills was found fit to stand trial Monday.

Thirty-year-old Emanuel Kahsai has just completed a psychiatric assessment at the Southern Alberta Forensic Psychiatry Centre.

READ MORE: Psychiatric assessment must continue for man accused in mother’s death

There were repeated outbursts from Kahsai during his appearance in court Monday.

He told the judge: “I would like to be released immediately” citing he has new evidence. He also asked to speak to a reporter.

READ MORE: Man arrested in stabbing death of women in Coventry Hills home 

Kahsai is accused of two counts of first-degree murder.

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Selmawit Alem and Julie Tran were found stabbed to death in Alem’s home.

At the time, Alem had an emergency protection order against her son.

Alem’s best friend is relieved with the finding Kahsai is fit to stand trial.

“I’m hoping there will be answers, I’m hoping there will be closure,” Susan Hills said. "There's no understanding this." 

Hills is worried Kahsai will still try to delay proceedings.

“Chances are he’s going to think about firing his lawyer,” Hills said, referencing further outbursts from Kahsai in court Monday.

Kahsai will be back in court for a preliminary inquiry scheduled for Nov. 8 to 15.

READ MORE: ‘It’s hell’ – Loved ones of Calgary murder victims struggle through holidays 

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