GASTON COUNTY, N.C. — A man accused of driving into a crowded restaurant and killing two family members faced a Gaston County judge on Monday.
A year ago, police charged Roger Self with first-degree murder after they said he intentionally drove his Jeep into the popular Surf and Turf Lodge on North 14th Street in Bessemer City.
Self’s family members filled the first few rows of the courtroom on the fourth floor.
The Self family had been to church earlier that day and then came to the restaurant to eat. Employees said Roger Self was sitting with his family, then excused himself.
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(Roger Self)
Police said he then drove his Jeep into the restaurant in the area where his family was sitting.
Roger Self's daughter Kate, a Gaston County sheriff's deputy, and his daughter-in-law Amanda were killed.
Self cried Monday as a prosecutor read his murder charge in court.
The state has asked for discovery evidence from the defense.
The trial is slated for February of next year if they can vet all of the evidence by then.
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(Amanda Self, left, Kate Self, right)
His wife, 13-year-old granddaughter, and son -- who is a Gaston County police officer -- were hurt in the crash.
Self's brother, Monty, believes Roger was mentally ill and that demons deep inside got the best of him and brought out the worst.
The family's pastor told Channel 9 Roger Self had been battling mental health issues.
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