The suspect who killed 11 people at the Tree of Life*Or L’Simcha Synagogue on Saturday pleaded not guilty on Thursday to a 44-count indictment, which was issued against him the previous day.

“Yes!” shouted Robert Bowers, 46, when asked if he understood the charges.

Although the alleged gunman was set for a preliminary hearing on the evidence, federal prosecutors instead took the case to a grand jury.

If convicted, Bowers could face the death penalty.

This development comes as three more of the victims will be laid to rest on Thursday: Richard Gottfried, 65, Sylvan Simon, 86, and Bernice Simon, 84.

Just before you scroll on...

Israel is at war. JNS is combating the stream of misinformation on Israel with real, honest and factual reporting. In order to deliver this in-depth, unbiased coverage of Israel and the Jewish world, we rely on readers like you. The support you provide allows our journalists to deliver the truth, free from bias and hidden agendas. Can we count on your support? Every contribution, big or small, helps JNS.org remain a trusted source of news you can rely on.

Become a part of our mission by donating today

Already a member? Log in to stop seeing this