SEWARD, Neb. (KOLN) — In a case that has shaken the Seward community, a Nebraska man accused of brutally killing his ex-fiancé just one day after posting bond in a domestic assault case has been declared competent to stand trial.
According to court documents, 54-year-old Casey Kindt was found fit for trial in the tragic murder of 36-year-old Jamie Hagen. Judge James Strecker reviewed a psychological evaluation from the Lincoln Regional Center and ruled on Wednesday that Kindt is of sound mind and will face justice for the heartbreaking crime.
This devastating case has left Hagen’s family and the local community reeling. A statement from the victim’s family expressed their desire for the maximum possible punishment. “He wanted death and failed. Perhaps the worst punishment is spending the rest of his life in prison. We are pleased that he is competent to stand trial and hope justice is served to the fullest extent,” the statement read.
The chilling timeline of events began on February 8, when Kindt allegedly shot and killed Hagen before turning the gun on himself in what authorities believe was a failed murder-suicide attempt. Medical reports revealed that the bullet fragmented upon impact with his skull, with a portion lodging into his brain—yet he survived.
Following his survival, prosecutors swiftly moved to charge Kindt with first-degree murder, burglary, child abuse, and multiple firearm-related offenses. On February 19, Judge C. Jo Petersen ordered that he be held without bond, underscoring the severity of the allegations.
Judge Strecker initially scheduled a competency hearing for May 19 but expedited the process after authorities confirmed Kindt’s condition. Now, with his fitness for trial established, a critical court hearing has been set for April 2 in Seward County District Court.
As this shocking case unfolds, the Seward community watches closely, hoping for justice for Jamie Hagen.
