An alleged murderer, accused of fatally stabbing his wife of 60 years in the chest multiple times, is set to argue he is not fit to plead.
On Tuesday Manfred Uhle, 86, was committed to the ACT Supreme Court accused of killing his 78-year-old wife at their Gordon home.
Despite previously entering a plea of not guilty to one count of murder, he is set to have his fitness to plead tested in the higher court.
In June, police found the body of Wanda Uhle with a forensic doctor identifying nine incised wounds to her chest, along with multiple additional injuries to her body.
Police documents state that about 7am on June 2 Manfred Uhle arrived at a granddaughter's home. He was wearing blue flannelette pyjamas and a red robe with no shoes on and appeared "shaken".
When she asked where Nan was, Manfred Uhle allegedly stated: "I'll tell you what's happened I just need to catch my breath."
He then allegedly said he had a fight with his wife, she had cut him and "Nan was now sleeping".
Another family member contacted police about half an hour later, claiming Manfred Uhle had stated words to the effect of: "Nan is at peace."
About 10 minutes later, police arrived at the Togo Place home where they found the woman deceased, in a fetal position, and under a blanket.
They claim to have found a knife covered with a towel near the front door, and blood in the hallway, laundry and toilet.
Officers saw stab wounds to the woman's chest and an injury to her right wrist.
Police claim Manfred Uhle had blood on his clothing, extremities and torn skin above his wrist.
A short time later, he was arrested at a Fadden home and taken to hospital.
Family members gave statements to police outlining Manfred Uhle's declining mental and physical health.
- Support is available for those who may be distressed. Phone Lifeline 13 11 14; Menslink 1300 789 978; Kids Helpline 1800 551 800; beyondblue 1300 224 636; 1800-RESPECT 1800 737 732.
