Man Accused of Killing a Woman Has Preliminary Hearing

The court proceedings began in Warren County for the Tidioute man accused of killing a woman in cold blood and sending police on a 10 hour manhunt.

The Warren County court room was jam packed as the preliminary hearing began for 52-year-old Randy Lee Poole.

District Attorney Ross McKiernan painted a picture of what happened that December 20th afternoon that Poole allegedly shot 56-year-old Kathleen Sweeney at her home on Davey Hill Road.

McKiernan says a detailed timeline was established that afternoon, and there is no rhyme or reason as to why Poole killed Sweeney, as he barely knew her.

Ross Mckiernan, Warren County District Attorney, said:

"When I say that the why is always going to be a bit of a mystery, there was no relationship other than that they knew each other and attended the same bar together."

Mike Holden: "But investigators say it all started here at the pub behind me. Poole left the pub and headed to the car wash where he made a drug deal and purchased bath salts. Following all that, he then headed to the victim's home."

McKiernan: "This is clearly a drug fueled rage. There is evidence that bath salts were employed by defendant in this case. And the evidence also established that 13 minutes later he hadshot the victim."

McKiernan claims that when Poole showed up at Sweeney's home, he attempted to sexually assault her. She then ran out to her car to escape.

Poole then reportedly shot through her driver's side window and shot her in the head.

McKiernan: "Poole then fires 3 shots close range, to the left side of her head."

This all eventually lead to a 10 hour man hunt for Poole.

Poole's attorney Alan Conn declined to comment on camera but says evidence is essential and the prosecution has no direct evidence connected. He says no one saw Poole driving the vehicle that lead police on the man hunt and no one saw him at the victim's home.

Mike Holden, Jet 24, Action News.

Poole faces charges of homicide, burglary, persons not to possess firearms and fleeing and eluding.

His arraignment is scheduled for January 31st. Jury selection is April 15th.