RICHMOND, Ky. (LEX 18) — More than four years after Chris and Gracie Hager were shot and killed outside apartments they owned in Richmond, their family members are growing frustrated with the lengthy legal proceedings against the man accused of their murders.

56-year-old Thomas Birl, appeared in Madison County court Tuesday morning for a pre-trial conference. Many friends and family members of the well-known couple attended the hearing.

"We're wanting this to move forward. That's where we are. Getting a little antsy, if you will," said Corey Hager, nephew of the victims.

Police say Birl used a stolen gun to shoot the couple outside their apartment building in August 2021, then set fire to the building, sparking an hours-long standoff with police.

Chris and Gracie Hager were well-known

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