SANDPOINT — A preliminary hearing in a Priest River murder case was delayed on Wednesday so the defendant can undergo a mental health evaluation.

Bradley Michael Leader remains held at the Bonner County Jail in lieu of $1 million bail. He is charged with second-degree murder, second-degree kidnapping and aggravated assault.

A new hearing date is pending. Bonner County Magistrate Court judges determine during preliminary hearings whether the state has enough evidence to justify trying a defendant in 1st District Court.

Leader, 67, is accused of strangling and bludgeoning Eveline Ursula Pederson, 66, at her home off Gunsmoke Road on Aug. 17. Leader is further accused of ordering a longtime acquaintance at gunpoint to help him dispose of Pederson's remains north of Priest River.

The witness partially complied with Leader's demands after he warned the witness that he would be shot to death if he didn't, according to a probable cause affidavit. Leader allegedly admitted to killing Pederson and showed no remorse, the affidavit said.

Deputy Public Defender Janet Whitney moved for Leader to be evaluated after questions arose whether he would be able to assist in his own defense. Whitney said unspecified facts and circumstances raised the question of Leader's competency.

Keith Kinnaird can be reached by email at kkinnaird@bonnercountydailybee.com and follow him on Twitter @KeithDailyBee.