After months of delays, we may find out today when the murder trial of Ray Shetler Jr. will finally happen. Shetler, who is 32, is charged with first degree murder, third degree murder, and criminal homicide in the shooting death of St. Clair Township Police officer Lloyd Reed Jr. at the New Florence home of Shetler’s girlfriend in November of 2015. Two other cases against him will be tried at the same time, for the domestic violence incident for which Reed had been called to the home, and for stealing a truck in his escape attempt.
A motions hearing is scheduled this afternoon before Westmoreland County Judge Meagan Bilik-DaFazio. Attorney Marc Daffner has asked the judge to dismiss both of the murder offenses, to dismiss evidence, and to allow for additional discovery and access to records.
Westmoreland County D.A. John Peck is seeking the death penalty. Shetler’s trial was originally scheduled for October 3rd, was rescheduled for January 3rd, and then January 9th. Today’s hearing is scheduled for 1:30 PM.
