Preliminary Hearing Set for Adam Miller in Murder Case

Adam Elijah Miller, who is charged with killing his father and attempting to kill his mother, will appear in Canal Justice Court in Fernley on March 5-6 for a preliminary hearing before Judge Lori Matheus.

A preliminary hearing is a court proceeding used to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed with a criminal case. Judge Matheus will decide whether probable cause exists to believe a crime was committed and that the defendant likely committed it. The prosecution presents basic evidence and may call witnesses, and the defense can cross-examine them, but it is not a full trial. If the judge finds probable cause, the case proceeds; if not, the charges may be dismissed.

Miller, who was 19 at the time of his arrest, led law enforcement on a 30-hour manhunt after he allegedly stabbed his parents. He is charged with Open Murder with the Use of a Deadly Weapon, a Category A Felony, which is punishable by the death penalty, life in prison, 20 years to life, or 50 years in prison with parole eligibility after 20 years.

Count I of the criminal complaint filed by the Lyon County District Attorney’s Office alleges that on or about December 18, 2024, in Fernley, Adam Miller used a knife to stab Lance Miller in the neck, inflicting mortal injuries. Count II alleges that he stabbed Elizabeth Miller, 61, in the neck. Count III also relates to the alleged stabbing of Elizabeth Miller and charges Adam Miller with Battery with a Deadly Weapon Causing Substantial Bodily Harm to a Victim 60 Years of Age or Older, which is punishable by 2-15 years. 

A separate case charges Adam Miller with Carrying a Concealed Pistol, Revolver, Firearm, or other Deadly Weapon, a Category C Felony punishable by 1-5 years, and alleges he was in possession of a .380 handgun on Nov. 21, 2024.

After an evaluation by two doctors, Adam Miller was deemed competent to stand trial. Should probable cause be determined during the March preliminary hearing, the case will be bound over to the Third Judicial District Court for Lyon County in Yerington.

Miller has pleaded not guilty and is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.