Judge Rules Somerville Stabbing Suspect Unfit for Trial

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An appeals court judge has upheld a lower court ruling that David C. Shroitman, charged with stabbing his former high school classmate Maryrose Fealey 37 times in 2024, is not competent to stand trial. Doctors testified that Shroitman suffers from schizophrenia and autistic disorder, though the victim's father believes Shroitman is "working the system" to avoid trial.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex legal and mental health issues surrounding competency to stand trial, particularly in violent crime cases where the defendant's mental state is a central factor. It also raises questions about public safety and victim's rights when a suspect is deemed unfit for trial.

The details

Shroitman was charged with first-degree murder, third-degree possession of a weapon, fourth-degree tampering with physical evidence, and third-degree hindering apprehension for the 2024 stabbing death of Maryrose Fealey, his former high school classmate. Investigators found a manifesto in Shroitman's home outlining a plan for killing Fealey, though the contents have not been disclosed.

• Maryrose Fealey was pronounced dead on January 30, 2024 outside her home.
• Shroitman was charged following the 2024 incident.
• A Superior Court judge ruled in April that Shroitman was not competent to stand trial.
• An appeals court upheld the ruling on February 27, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.