An artist's sketch shows Richard Henry Bain (C), the man charged in Quebec's election night shooting, in court with psychiatrist Chantal Bouchard (2nd R) and an interpreter in Montreal, January 28, 2013. REUTERS/Mike McLaughlin
MONTREAL - A judge has declared alleged separatist rally shooter Richard Henry Bain fit to stand trial for first-degree murder and 15 other counts.
In an oral decision from the bench on Monday, Judge Jean-Paul Braun said there's no overriding evidence suggesting the fishing-lodge owner can't face the charges.
"I may be left with questions "¦ but in the circumstances I am of the opinion that it was not established "¦ that the accused to declared unfit, so he's declared fit."
Bain, 62, sitting in the prisoner's box, replied: "Jesus Christ just spoke through you, your honour, thank you."
The ruling, which follows three adjournments on technicalities, came amid Bain's usual outbursts that at times frustrated the judge, Crown and Bain's own defence team.