Competency finding reversed for man charged with murdering Seattle dog walker

Jahmed Haynes, 48, has been ruled incompetent to stand trial for the second time regarding the murder of 80-year-old dog walker Ruth Dalton. This decision reverses a previous competency finding made in December, after Haynes underwent treatment at Western State Hospital. Dalton was killed during a carjacking on August 20, 2024, while she was picking up dogs for her dog-walking business. Her granddaughter, Melanie Roberts, criticized the legal system for its repeated determinations of Haynes' competency, asserting that he should be compliant with treatment. The court has ordered Haynes to return to the hospital for a 90-day treatment period, where he will be reassessed.

Investigators allege that Haynes not only killed Dalton but also stabbed her dog, Prince, before abandoning his body in a trash can. The case underscores broader issues regarding mental health and the criminal justice system's response to defendants with mental health challenges. The community continues to mourn Dalton, as memorials for her grow in Madison Valley.