TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – A man accused of murdering an Alabama resident with a hatchet at a Tucson bus stop appeared in court Monday. Daniel Michael Jr. has been indicted for first-degree murder in the case involving the victim, Jacob Couch.
A man accused of murdering an Alabama resident with a hatchet at a Tucson bus stop appeared in court Monday. Daniel Michael Jr. has been indicted for first-degree murder in the case involving the victim, Jacob Couch.
Couch, 32, was attacked while waiting at a bus stop near 6th Avenue and Broadway April 5th. He succumbed to his injuries after being on life support for nearly two weeks. The incident occurred while Couch and his wife were moving from California back to Alabama following the sudden loss of their newborn baby.
News 4 Tucson’s Chief Investigative Reporter Chorus Nylander has been covering the case and was present in the courtroom. Michael appeared virtually for his arraignment, where the judge entered a not guilty plea on his behalf.
“You’re presumed innocent. I am going to enter not guilty pleas for you. You have the right to remain silent,” said the Judge.
A Public Defender was appointed to be Michael’s attorney. Couch’s wife attended the hearing virtually but did not make any statements.
Court documents reveal that the evidence against Michael includes video surveillance of the attack and a search warrant of his home. Detectives reportedly found a hatchet and clothing matching what was seen on video. Investigators also say Michael confessed to being the person in the video after being confronted with the evidence.
News 4 Tucson has learned that Couch’s family has returned to Alabama. Speaking with Couch’s younger brother Luke last week, he emphasized their commitment to seeking justice.
“I just want everyone to know we are not going away. I made a promise to my brother while he was sitting in that hospital bed that I would make sure he got justice,” said Luke Couch, the victim’s brother.
Michael is scheduled to return to court on June 5. News 4 Tucson will continue to provide updates as the case progresses.
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