Murder suspect found competent for trial

A man who police say knifed his former girlfriend to death in Magna in 2008 has been found mentally competent to stand trial.

Police say Charles Richard Gunkel broke into the home of Molly Robbins, a second-grade teacher at Wright Elementary School, and killed her. Law enforcement officials also say Gunkel attacked Robbins' 14-year-old daughter, but she managed to flee to a neighbor's house.

Questions about Gunkel's competency were raised by his attorneys. Third District Judge William Barrett on Monday received the results of competency evaluations that said Gunkel is capable of proceeding to trial.

Gunkel, 53, is charged with aggravated murder and aggravated burglary, both first-degree felonies, and aggravated assault, a third-degree felony.

His next court date is a Sept. 15 preliminary hearing before 3rd District Judge Deno Himonas.

— Linda Thomson