Teen competent to stand trial in slaying of brother, assaults on three other family members in Midland County

LaNia Coleman

MIDLAND — A 15-year-old Midland County youth is competent to stand trial on an open charge of murder and three counts of assault with intent to murder.

Midland County District Judge Stephen P. Carras on Monday said results of psychological testing at the Center for Forensic Psychology indicate Steven J. Pribbernow Jr. is able to understand the charges against him and assist in his own defense.

Pribbernow, who remains jailed without bond, next must appear for a preliminary hearing to determine whether prosecutors have enough evidence to establish probable cause to believe a crime occurred and Pribbernow had a hand in it.

A hearing date is pending.

The teen is charged as an adult.

Investigators have alleged Pribbernow mortally stabbed his brother, Justin Pribbernow, 17, and wounded siblings Kevin Pribbernow, 15, and Kody Pribbernow, 13, and his stepfather, Joshua M. Saylor, 32, on Aug. 3 at the family’s Geneva Township home.

All charges carry life sentences.