Veteran charged in killings wants to represent self

HOLLIDAYSBURG, Pa. --

An Iraq war veteran accused of killing two people in an Altoona sandwich shop shooting wants to represent himself at sentencing if he's convicted of first-degree murder in March.

A Blair County judge scheduled a hearing for Feb. 29 on Nicholas Horner's request to represent himself during sentencing if he's facing the death penalty. A judge previously ruled the death penalty is constitutional and should remain an option at Horner's trial.

Horner contends he suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder. Authorities said that in April 2009, Horner robbed the Subway on 58th Street in Altoona, stole about $130 from the sandwich shop, shot and killed a 19-year-old employee, injured another worker and fatally shot a 64-year-old man getting his mail as Horner fled.

Defense attorney Thomas Dickey told the Altoona Mirror on Tuesday he'd prefer Horner not represent himself at sentencing and will discuss the matter with his client.

Jury selection is scheduled for March 12. Stay with WJACTV.com, 6 News and WJACTV.com Mobile  for continuing coverage.