Redmond woman accused of killing mother appears in court as case prepares to proceed
Claire Elmer
(Update: adding information from June 24th’s hearing)
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A Redmond woman accused of killing her mother last summer was back before a Deschutes County judge Wednesday for a status check hearing.
Jessica Andersch is charged with second-degree murder and unlawful use of a weapon in connection with the fatal stabbing of her mother, Tracy Berry, at their Redmond home in June of 2025.
Since early in the case, questions have surrounded Andersch’s mental fitness. Court records show she has been found both fit and unfit to proceed more than once, repeatedly delaying proceedings.
The delays reflecting broader challenges Oregon courts have faced with access to mental health services, including limited treatment space and a shortage of qualified mental health evaluators.
Most recently, on June 18th, Andersch was found mentally fit to proceed.
She appeared remotely Wednesday before Judge Wells Ashby. Her demeanor during the brief hearing was calm — a contrast from some earlier court appearances, where she made outbursts, appeared confused while discussing the case and charges, and made statements about stabbing her mother.
In one previous appearance, Andersch said, “I did stab the being that represented herself as Tracy Berry.”
After a brief discussion between the judge, attorneys, and Andersch, the next hearing was set for July 21st. Andersch’s defense attorney said she is requesting to appear in person for that hearing, and later said trial dates will likely be set at that time.
KTVZ News will continue to follow the case as it moves forward.