Trial Set for Parker Case if Venue Not Changed

Accused Marshall County High School shooter Gabriel Parker was in court Friday for a status hearing, and a trial date has been tentatively set.

A Marshall County Circuit Court Clerk told West Kentucky Star that Parker appeared before Judge James Jameson and he acted on a motion from Commonwealth's Attorney Dennis Foust by setting a trial date of June 1, 2020. However, Parker's attorney indicated he will file a motion for change of venue, which could move the case out of Marshall County. 

Another status hearing is scheduled for May 17 at 1 pm, and Judge Jameson told attorneys that any other motions need to be filed at least two weeks prior to that date. 

If a motion is made for change of venue, and it is approved, the court that would be responsible for the case would have to schedule another trial. 

On February 28, Foust filed the motion requesting the trial date be set, and also filed notice that he would seek a sentence for Parker of life without parole for at least 25 years. 

Parker is accused of opening fire January 23, 2018, at the high school, killing Bailey Holt and Preston Cope, and injuring others. Parker faces two counts of murder and 14 counts of assault in the case.