Ex-guitarist denies crime faces competency evaluation in murder case


The legal battle surrounding former Turnstile guitarist Brady Ebert has taken a dramatic turn, focusing less on the act itself and more on the complex legal and psychological evaluations of the accused. Accused of a violent incident in March, Ebert has repeatedly sought to establish his innocence, but the court proceedings have immediately shifted focus to his mental competency to defend himself.

During a recent hearing in Montgomery County Circuit Court, Ebert’s attorney raised significant concerns regarding his client’s ability to understand the charges and effectively aid in his own defense. This development prompted the judge to order Ebert to undergo a formal competency evaluation, setting the stage for a critical status hearing scheduled for September 22.

Ebert, however, fought back fiercely against these challenges. He maintained that he was perfectly competent and vehemently denied the severity of the allegations, claiming that every detail in the police report was fabricated. Furthermore, Ebert suggested that his previous attorney may have been compromised, alleging that the defense counsel was working in concert with the prosecution.

Adding to the complexity of the case, Ebert insisted that video evidence exists which would prove his innocence, claiming he had not committed the crime. He vowed to press charges against the arresting officers, prosecutors, and defense attorneys, reflecting a deep dissatisfaction with the justice process he is undergoing.

The legal stakes remain exceptionally high. Ebert is currently facing serious felony charges, including attempted first-degree murder, attempted second-degree murder, first-degree assault, and two counts of second-degree assault. These charges place him on the path toward a potential life sentence.

The victim of the incident is 79-year-old William Yates, the father of Turnstile singer Brendan Yates, who was found with trauma to his lower extremities in the front yard of his home.

This high-profile legal drama is layered with personal history. The incident followed when Turnstile severed ties with Ebert in 2022, citing a consistent pattern of harmful behavior that affected himself, the band, and the wider community. At the time of the split, the band had stated that boundaries needed to be set when healthy communication was no longer possible and threats of violence began to emerge.

You may also like: