Derek Saretzky to undergo psych evaluation in deaths of Hailey Dunbar-Blanchette, her father

The man accused of killing atwo-year-old Alberta girland her father will be sent for a 30-daypsychiatric assessment to determine whether he is fit to stand trial.

Derek Saretzkyfaces two charges of first-degree murder in the deaths ofTerry Blanchette, 27,and toddlerHailey Dunbar-Blanchette.

He also facesone count of indignity to a body, relating to Hailey'sdeath.

• Hailey Dunbar-Blanchette case: What we know
• Derek Saretzky up and talking to medical staff after suicide attempt

Saretzkyhas hiredEdmontonlawyer PeterNorthcottto represent him.

In a Lethbridge courtroom Wednesdaymorning, Saretzkyappeared by CCTVandwas ordered to undergo the psychiatric evaluation, which will help determine how the case will proceed.

His defence team elected to have the caseheard by a judge and jury, ifSaretzkyis deemed fit to stand trial.

Last week,Saretzkywas hospitalized and put into a medically induced coma after he was found trying to hang himselfwhile in custody. He has since recovered and been returned to the Lethbridge Correctional Centre.

Patrick Edgerton,a lawyer on the defence team,said Saretzky's physical condition has improved greatly since his hospitalization.

"As you can see from his appearance in court today, he is walking and talking," Edgertonsaid. "Of course, he is very concerned about everything that's going on, but he appears to be well."

The tragic case beganwhen an Amber Alert was issuedfor the toddler almost three weeks ago after Blanchette was found dead in his home and the girl was missing.

Saretzky was taken in for questioning on Sept. 15.

Hours later, investigators recovered Hailey's body in a rural area of Blairmore and formal charges were laidthe next day.

Suicide attempt wouldprompt review

Alberta Justice spokeswoman Michelle Davio said she couldn't speak to the specifics of Saretzky's case but, in general terms, a suicide attempt at a correctional facility would lead to an investigation and review.

"When an incident occurs, we do a thorough review and take action to prevent it from happening again," Davio said inan email."This could include changes to our policies and procedures, or enhanced training."

Saretzky'snext court appearance is set for Oct. 29