DEDHAM— A high-stakes hearing is set for Friday morning that could determine the fate of Brian Walshe, the accused murderer of his wife, Ana Walshe. Nearly three years after the 39-year-old mother went missing, her husband faces chilling charges of murder, misleading a police investigation, and improper conveyance of a human body.

This could be a pivotal moment in the case as Judge Diane Freniere evaluates Walshe's competency to stand trial. Defense attorneys claim his mental state has deteriorated significantly after he was allegedly stabbed by another inmate earlier this year. They argue that his deteriorating mental and physical health hampers his ability to prepare for a trial.

The psychological turmoil Brian Walshe allegedly faces was outlined by Dr. Michael Burke, who relayed disturbing assessments of interrupted sleep and nightmares stemming from his prison attack. "These problems have given him cause for concern in his ability to participate in the proceedings," Burke said.

Complicating matters, the trial date, tentatively set for November, hinges on the results of a competency evaluation currently being conducted at Bridgewater State Hospital. The evaluation period has been extended, with findings expected by November 14th. If the judge rules that Walshe is unfit for trial, it could delay justice for Ana Walshe even further.

Both sides are already clashing over potential evidence, including Walshe's internet searches that reportedly include "ten ways to dispose of a dead body." Defense attorneys are also pushing back against the inclusion of certain evidence, including explicit material linked to a "cheating wife."

As the clock ticks down to the hearing, the eyes of the public remain fixed on this shocking case, awaiting any developments that could shake the already tumultuous legal proceedings.