Gallery Furniture fire suspect ruled incompetent for trial

HOUSTON

A judge Monday ruled Robert Gillham, the man accused of starting the fire, incompetent to stand trial. Gillham's attorney says his client has a tumor pushing on his brain and Gillham has memory problems and difficulties speaking, hearing and seeing.

Gillham will be sent to a state mental hospital and the judge says Gillham could regain competency.

The fire in May 2009 caused nearly $20 million worth of damage. Gillham has been in custody since July of 2009 under a half-a-million dollar bond.

Gillham is charged with arson and is a former Gallery Furniture employee.

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