Full Breakdown
Former Turnstile Guitarist Brady Ebert Ordered to Undergo Competency Evaluation
9/4/2026, 12:20:27 AM
Core Incident and Charges
On March 29, 2026, Montgomery County police allege that Brady Ebert, 34, drove a 2001 Buick LeSabre onto Timberlake Drive in Silver Spring, Maryland, and struck William Yates, 79, the father of Turnstile frontman Brendan Yates. Police say Ebert honked, swerved, and after Yates threw a rock, Ebert backed up and accelerated, causing “trauma to his lower extremities” and a severely broken leg. He was arrested and initially charged with attempted second-degree murder and first-degree assault. In May, a Montgomery County grand jury upgraded the case to include attempted first-degree murder, a charge that carries a potential life sentence if convicted. Ebert also faces attempted second-degree murder and related assault counts.
Background & Context
Ebert joined Turnstile at its inception in 2010 and performed on the band’s first three studio albums, including the Grammy-winning 2021 record *Glow On*. He was dismissed from the group in August 2022 amid what the band described as a “consistent pattern of harmful behavior.” After his departure, Ebert’s interactions with the Yates family grew increasingly hostile, according to police statements that cite a “series of heated exchanges” leading up to the March 29 incident.
Data & Statistics
- Defendant: Brady Ebert, 34, of Silver Spring, Maryland.
- Victim: William Yates, 79, father of vocalist Brendan Yates.
- Vehicle: 2001 Buick LeSabre.
- Injuries: Severe fracture of the lower leg (police report) and “trauma to his lower extremities” (hospital interview).
- Charges: Attempted first-degree murder, attempted second-degree murder, first-degree assault, and related offenses.
Official Statements & Responses
During a status hearing in Montgomery County Circuit Court, Judge Eric Johnson addressed Ebert’s claims, responding, “Sir, you have a very good attorney.”
Attorney Mark Sobel, representing Ebert, told the court he had “significant concerns regarding competency,” arguing that his client might not understand the charges or assist in his own defense. Ebert countered, describing himself as “perfectly competent” and accusing Sobel of colluding with prosecutors and of previous financial misconduct.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Sir, you have a very good attorney,” — Circuit Judge Eric Johnson
Timeline
- March 29, 2026 – Alleged vehicle-ramming of William Yates; Ebert arrested.
- April 1, 2026 – Police respond to the scene; Yates found with “trauma to his lower extremities.”
- May 2026 – Grand jury upgrades charges to include attempted first-degree murder.
- September 2026 – Judge orders competency evaluation after Sobel’s competency concerns are raised.
- September 22, 2026 – Scheduled status hearing.
What’s Next
A competency evaluation will determine whether Ebert can stand trial on the attempted murder and assault charges. The court has set a status hearing for September 22 to review the evaluation’s findings and decide on subsequent procedural steps.
