Kempke pleaded not guilty to all charges including stabbing a complete stranger three times that pregnant woman thankfully has been released from the hospital. And it sounds like the suspect in this case once had a really bright future ahead of him. A not guilty plea from 27 year old Cole Klem, a Tory Pines alum who went on to play baseball for the University of Nebraska while studying psychology. Now charged with premeditated, attempted murder, robbery and mayhem. This defendant particularly seemed to have targeted this victim and walked a great distance in order to commit. Prosecutors say it was a 25 year old pregnant woman using the ATM near the target on Mira Mesa Boulevard in Mira Mesa. When Klem stabbed her in the chin, shoulder and neck just missing her carotid artery, we're told she fought back and witnesses intervened. Surveillance images led to Klems arrest the next day, the defendant had his arms around the victim's neck and before he reached for her neck, he had a knife out open at the ready. He grabbed her neck and without exchanging any words, stabbed her in the face, slit her throat, pushed her to the ground continued to strike her and stab her felony, vandalism charges were also added today following a separate random act of violence just two weeks ago. According to police, they say he was in possession of a switchblade and methamphetamine. The defendant stopped in front of that car began cursing at the victim for no reason. The Klem family has asked for privacy during this difficult time. But friend of theirs for 20 plus years who coached Klem as a kid was heartbroken to hear the news. This is a tragedy all the way around. He described Klem as a humble leader but shared that he believes he has struggled with mental health issues. A restraining order filed by his parents in 2020 shows at one point, they declined to press charges and were hopeful for rehab. This is a good family. They are hurting in a way. You can't imagine they've been dealing with this for multiple years. They've tried everything. They've exhausted financial resources and now their son is going to go to prison. He says this could happen to anyone. It doesn't excuse in any way, excuse his behavior in any way, but he needs help. Cole Klimke will remain in custody on no bail. His next court appearance is July 1st he's facing between 14 years to life in prison reporting from downtown Jenny Day CBS eight. Thanks
