Defense attorney weighs-in on next steps for former neighbor charged in postal worker shooting case

CARNEGIE, Pa. — It’s a crime that rocked a small community: A beloved postal worker was gunned down while on the job.

“When I first heard about the allegations, I thought mentally something didn’t sound right. The reason why is because there are allegations of poisoning by the defendant and following the victim,” said attorney Blaine Jones.

According to court paperwork, the alleged shooter, Eric Kortz, told investigators that he believed the victim, Louis Vignone, had poisoned his family.  Jones said it’s likely Kortz’s public defender will ask for a mental health evaluation first.

“Basically, a competency review, which takes time but once that comes back it will give you a better idea on what avenue you are going to take on the case,” Jones said.

Investigators said following the shooting, Kortz drove himself to the Carnegie Police Department, where he told police he wanted to turn himself in for the crimes.

Now the question is, will that aid in his defense?

“I wouldn’t say it helps, I think it provides a mitigating circumstance in the fact in that there may be some serious mental health issues,” Jones said.

Jones told WPXI unless Kortz takes a plea deal, he’s looking at life in prison. His next court date is Oct. 12 at 3 p.m.

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