Alabama Man Accused of Decapitating Family Members With Chainsaw
Prosecutors are considering additional charges against the suspect after he allegedly threatened his court-appointed attorney.
An Alabama man is facing two capital murder charges in connection with the deaths of two family members, allegedly killed with a chainsaw. Thomas Henry Steele, 47, is accused of decapitating his aunt, Christy Deloach, 65, and his grandmother, Dora Boone, 85, at their home on Carolina Court in Mobile on Oct. 12.
During an Oct. 13 court hearing, Steele allegedly told Circuit Judge S. Wesley Pipes to "kill him" after the judge appointed Glenn Davidson to represent him. This remark has prompted prosecutors to weigh whether additional criminal charges are warranted.
Davidson confirmed he is still representing Steele, but declined to comment further, citing the ongoing competency evaluation. Zieman, communications director for the Mobile County District Attorney’s Office, stated that prosecutors have not yet decided on pursuing additional charges. Steele is being held without bond at a secure medical facility for treatment intended to restore his competency to stand trial. If found competent, the prosecution will proceed, and the state will advocate for him to remain held without bond.
The competency evaluation, ordered by Judge Pipes, is expected to take up to 90 days and will be conducted at the Alabama Department of Mental Health. According to the department, patients begin receiving restoration and treatment services immediately, with evaluations occurring once symptoms are stable and the restoration program is complete.
Hours before the victims' bodies were discovered, a relative called 911 to report concerns about Steele's behavior. According to a 911 transcript, the caller stated Steele had stopped taking lithium, was giving away his phone and vehicle, and had spoken of "living for God." The caller described him as bipolar but not violent.
The criminal complaint alleges Steele used a chainsaw to kill both women. Police discovered the victims deceased inside the residence and detained Steele at the scene. Investigators believe Steele lived at the home with the victims.
Steele's prior criminal record includes several DUI cases, the most recent in 2009. He is scheduled for arraignment on Nov. 19.
Christy Deloach was remembered by her employer at Mr. Sam’s Hair Fashions as a hardworking and kind stylist. Neighbors described her as friendly and active in the community. She had been caring for her mother, Dora, since the death of her father, Phillip Boone, who had purchased the home with his wife in 2014.