A man in Alabama is accused of a horrific crime. He allegedly used a chainsaw to kill two family members. Police detained Thomas Henry Steele, 47, for the deaths of his aunt, Christy Deloach, 65, and grandmother, Dora Boone, 85. This incident occurred on October 12 at their home in Mobile.
During a court hearing on October 13, Steele faced charges of capital murder. Circuit Judge S. Wesley Pipes ordered a competency evaluation. This order came after Steele made a disturbing comment, saying ‘kill him’ about his court-appointed lawyer, Glenn Davidson.
Davidson, representing Steele, confirmed his ongoing role in the case. However, he awaits further proceedings to gather more information. Prosecutors have not decided if additional charges are warranted based on Steele’s remarks.
Tara Zieman from the Mobile County District Attorney’s Office stated, ‘The defendant is held without bond at a secure facility. He is receiving treatment to restore his competency. If found competent, prosecution will continue.’
This evaluation at the Alabama Department of Mental Health could take up to 90 days. Malissa Valdes from ADMH outlined that patients receive treatment immediately upon admission. Evaluations commence once symptoms stabilize.
Prior to the crime, a relative called 911 about Steele’s behavior. The relative mentioned Steele stopped taking lithium and gave away his phone. She described him as calm and non-violent, mentioning his bipolar condition.
The criminal complaint alleges Steele used a chainsaw to kill both women. Police discovered the bodies inside the home and detained Steele at the scene.
Zieman noted previous legal attempts to commit Steele for mental health reasons are unclear. Steele’s past includes several DUI cases, with the most recent in 2009.
Steele’s arraignment is set for November 19 before Judge Jay York. The case continues as authorities seek to restore Steele’s competency and understand his actions further.
Victim Information:
Christy Deloach was well-known in the community. She worked at Mr. Sam’s Hair Fashions in Mobile for 15 years. Salon owner Lenny Zanghi described her as a kind and dedicated stylist.
Neighbors remembered Deloach as an active and caring member of the community. She also looked after her mother, Dora, following her father’s death in 2014.