Fullerton : Killer of Seven Says He’s Sane, Asks for Freedom
Edward C. Allaway, who has spent the last 11 years in state hospitals for the shooting deaths of seven people at Cal State Fullerton, has again petitioned for freedom, claiming that he is now sane and no longer a danger to society.
Allaway was found not guilty by reason of insanity in the July 12, 1976, shooting spree, the worst shooting incident in the county’s history. Allaway, now 48, was a janitor at the university who reportedly went into a rage after some students taunted him.
Allaway petitioned for release in 1985 but eventually withdrew it. He re-issued the petition last summer, but told The Times that he also withdrew that, on the advice of his attorneys. It was met by a strong protest from the Orange County district attorney’s office.
Superior Court Judge Myron S. Brown on Tuesday set an April 21 hearing date so a panel of doctors can be appointed to review Allaway’s mental condition and determine if he is eligible for release.
Prosecutors have said they will once again vigorously oppose his release.
Allaway has spent most of the last 11 years at Atascadero State Hospital, 20 miles north of San Luis Obispo.
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