UPPER SANDUSKY, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)— The family of a young woman tragically killed during her shift at a Dollar Tree in Upper Sandusky is determined to seek justice despite uncertainties surrounding the murder suspect’s trial.

On January 1, 2023, Keris Riebel, a 22-year-old cashier, was viciously attacked by a man wielding a machete. The suspect, Bethel M. Bekele, 27, also of Upper Sandusky, has been charged with six felony counts, including murder, aggravated murder, felonious assault, and aggravated burglary.

Accused killer Bethel Bekele,27, of Upper Sandusky remains institutionalized at Twin Valley Behavioral Healthcare in Columbus where efforts to restore his competence have failed. Prosecutors are now seeking a second assessment after previously being told there was a likelihood Bekele would become competent to stand trial.

Despite efforts to restore his competency at Twin Valley Behavioral Healthcare in Columbus, a recent evaluation confirmed Bekele’s ongoing incompetence, leading to him being deemed unfit to stand trial in March of the same year.

In a bold move, prosecutors are seeking a second assessment as Bekele remains a central figure in a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Keris Riebel’s husband, Jordan. The lawsuit also targets Dollar Tree Stores and Lowe’s Home Centers, seeking $175,000 in damages.

Allegations in the lawsuit suggest that Bekele purchased the murder weapon from Lowe’s, where concerns about his behavior were dismissed by management. The lawsuit further details the horrific impact of the attack on Keris and her family, citing physical pain, mental anguish, and emotional suffering.

The Riebel family is also seeking compensation for funeral expenses and court costs, emphasizing the devastating toll of the incident. Despite the legal complexities and uncertainties, the Riebel family remains resolute in their pursuit of justice and accountability.

If Bekele is ultimately found competent and convicted of murder, he could face a life sentence without the possibility of parole.