(WBRE/WYOU) — An accused killer will soon be brought back to Pennsylvania to face murder charges. 55-year-old Terence Ray from Hazleton waived his right to an extradition hearing on Wednesday in New York.
Ray allegedly murdered 39-year-old Jessica Lockwood at his Hazleton home three weeks ago and was the focus of an 11-day manhunt.
28/22 News I-Team Reporter Andy Mehalshick has been working on this story.
Those details, the logistics, are being worked out even as we speak, and for the first time since the murder of Jessica Lockwood, 28/22 News saw and heard from Ray.
Terence Ray was brought into a courtroom at the Westchester County, New York courthouse on Wednesday for an extradition hearing, wearing a mask, guarded by sheriffs' deputies.
His defense attorney stood next to him.
"You're charged with being a fugitive from the State, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, for the commission of a crime at that State. According to the State of Pennsylvania wants you extradited to that State to face charges," Westchester County Judge Maurice Williams stated.
Ray is accused of murdering Jessica Lockwood in his Hazleton home on Saturday, April 26.
An autopsy found that she died from a gunshot wound and blunt force trauma.
Detectives say Ray then set her body on fire along Club 40 Road in Hazleton.
Investigators say they found evidence in Ray's home linking him to Lockwood's murder.
He was captured near New York City after an 11-day manhunt.
In court Wednesday, Ray waived his right to fight extradition, clearing the way for his return to Luzerne County.
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"Your attorney says you waived extradition proceeding and consent to be extradited, do you understand?" Judge Williams asked.
"Yes," Ray replied.
"Your attorney has indicated you wish to waive either extradition proceedings," Judge Williams added.
"Yes," Ray responded
"Do you waive further extradition proceedings?" Judge Williams questioned.
"Yes," Ray stated.
"Have the defendant uncuffed so he can sign waiver extradition forms," Judge Williams said.
The handcuffs were removed, he signed the extradition forms, the handcuffs were put back on, and he was led out of the courtroom.
The details of his return are being worked out even as we speak.
We are monitoring the situation and will keep you posted.
