CHARLESTON, W.Va – An Elkview woman accused in a 2024 murder will stand trial in October after being found mentally competent.
Brittany Hickman, 37, is charged with first-degree murder and several other charges in connection with the shooting death of Richard Crowder of Mink Shoals. A hearing on Monday before Kanawha County Circuit Judge Kenneth Ballard established Hickman was found competent to be tried.
Crowder was found dead in his home on February 13, 2024. Investigators determined he died of a single gunshot wound from a shotgun sometime between February 11 and 13.
A criminal complaint stated Hickman was seen with Crowder on February 11 and was found nearby after officers uncovered Crowder’s body. Authorities say they found gunshot residue on her left hand and Crowder’s blood on her feet and shirt, as well as Hickman’s DNA on the hammer of the shotgun.
Hickman pleaded not guilty to the charges in December 2024. Her trial is scheduled for October 26, with a pretrial hearing set on September 28.