A competency hearing for Hunter Vanderwall, 19, concluded in 86th District Court with a judge ordering a review of previously undisclosed medical evidence. Vanderwall faces felony murder charges in the November 2025 shooting death of Traverse City parking services employee Lawrence Boyd. While Dr. Daniel Sorkin testified that Vanderwall is competent to stand trial, the defense introduced a 2024 neuropsychological evaluation that may alter that assessment.
The Role of Clinical Evidence in Competency Hearings
During the recent hearing, defense attorney Jesse Williams presented a 2024 clinical and neuropsychological evaluation that was not part of Dr. Sorkin’s initial review. According to testimony from Dr. Sorkin, the inclusion of this document creates a possibility that his professional opinion on Vanderwall’s competency could change.
Judge presiding over the 86th District Court has ordered the defense to submit the 2024 evaluation to Dr. Sorkin for review. A follow-up competency hearing is scheduled for August 7 to determine how this new data impacts the legal path forward for the case.
Did you know?
Status of Legal Proceedings Against Co-Defendants
The case involving the death of Lawrence Boyd involves two defendants with separate legal timelines. While Vanderwall’s competency remains under review, the case against 17-year-old Eugene Thompson has moved to the 13th Circuit Court.
Thompson’s case was bound over to the circuit court in March 2026. He faces a list of charges including first-degree premeditated murder, attempted murder, and multiple weapons-related offenses. His schedule includes a final conference hearing on August 28, followed by a trial date currently set for January 5.
| Defendant | Primary Charges | Next Key Date |
|---|---|---|
| Hunter Vanderwall | Felony Murder, Resisting/Obstructing, Vehicle B&E | August 7 (Competency) |
| Eugene Thompson | 1st Degree Murder, Attempted Murder, Firearms charges | August 28 (Conference) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if a defendant is found incompetent to stand trial?
What is the difference between the charges against Vanderwall and Thompson?
Vanderwall is charged with felony murder. Thompson is charged with first-degree premeditated murder.
Follow our ongoing coverage of the Traverse City judicial proceedings. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates on court dates and case developments directly to your inbox.