KALAMAZOO, Mich. (WOOD) – Citing the possibility that he could be a flight risk or a danger to the community, a judge has denied bond for the man accused of driving his pickup truck into nine bicyclists, killing five and injuring the remaining four.

Charles Pickett Jr., 50, of Battle Creek, appeared via video arraignment in Kalamazoo District Court Friday afternoon. He was stoic and sat slightly hunched over as the judge read his charges – including five counts of second-degree murder and four counts of reckless driving causing serious impairment.

When the judge asked him if he understood the charges he’s facing, Pickett simply replied, “Yes.”

When asked if he wanted a court-appointed attorney, Pickett wavered at first, stating he was discussing it with his parents. The judge ultimately said he’d assign him one, telling Pickett he could replace the court-appointed attorney at a later date.

A preliminary examination has been scheduled for June 29. At that point, a judge will determine if there is enough evidence to send Pickett’s case to trial.What others are clicking on: