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Teen charged in half-sister's slaying to get mental exam

A 16-year-old western Michigan boy who is charged in the strangulation death of his 18-year-old half-sister will get a mental examination.

The Grand Rapids Press reports a judge on Tuesday says Savon Schmus will be evaluated for competency and criminal responsibility before a hearing to determine if the case goes to trial.

He's charged as an adult with open murder.

Defense attorney Charles Clapp had filed a motion seeking an examination. He said he's concerned about his client's competency.

A person walking a dog found McKenna Hilton's body Aug. 18 in a wooded area near Emerald Lake in Grand Rapids Township.

Schmus and Hilton shared the same father. Police believe Hilton, of Grand Rapids, was strangled in their father's apartment and her body later dumped in the wooded area.

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