Alleged I-96 shooter's attorneys say he is mentally ill after hearing

NOVI, Mich. (WXYZ) - We may be getting a better idea of how attorneys plan to defend the accused I-96 shooter.

Raulie Casteel is accused of opening fire on drivers along I-96 during a two-week period this past October.  On Friday he stood with his attorneys as he waived his right to a preliminary exam at Novi’s District Court.

During such a hearing evidence is presented to the court, and the judge decides whether there is enough evidence to move forward. The case now will go to circuit court.

After the hearing Casteel’s attorneys talked about what may be behind his actions.

“There has been a conclusion that he suffers from a mental disorder, a delusional disorder. There is an evaluation that is going on and we’re going to see where we go after get a result from the forensic center,” said Doug Mullkoff, Casteel’s defense attorney.

Casteel faces charges in Livingston, Ingham, Shiawasee and Oakland counties.

The most serious include Assault with Intent to Murder and Domestic Terrorism. Both carry possible life sentences.