Psychologist says Nicholas Horner was in a ‘dreamlike state’

Expert: Horner lacked intent
Psychologist says veteran was in a ‘dreamlike state’

March 27, 2012
By Phil Ray
The Altoona Mirror

HOLLIDAYSBURG - Nicholas A. Horner was in a "dreamlike state," or delirium, when he shot three people, killing two, during a 2009 robbery and getaway, a defense psychologist testified Monday in Blair County Court.

It was caused by repeated use of medication, and it also meant Horner was unable to form an intent to kill, psychologist Ernest Boswell of Minnesota said.

"He was operating at a different level," he testified.

Horner, who served three tours with the Army in Iraq, suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, but Boswell said it was not the cause of the April 6, 2009, incident at 58th Street Subway.

Horner, 31, is charged with killing Scott Garlick, 19, and wounding Michelle Petty, both Subway employees.
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