W. T. Tennessee-- Charges were filed today stemming from the post-Christmas sale
brawl that ended in the death of one Kmart bargain shopper.
Expectant mother, "Bertha Bucksam" was charged with first-degree manslaughter in the
death of fellow shopper, Nancy LaNew. LaNew was allegedly beaten to death by Bucksam with a sale item that both women wanted to purchase.
The sale item was reported to be a "Nurturing Nathan" doll, part of a series of dolls
used as teaching aides for older children, caring for younger siblings.
Bucksam was allegedly heard yelling, "I want that doll for my Jimmy"! during the heated battle. Bucksam, who is expecting a baby in May, stated she needed the doll to, "Teach my son to love his new baby brother", at her arraignment hearing.
"My client is suffering from Pre-partum Depression and is not responsible for her actions", Bucksam's lawyer explained.
Witnesses reported that Bucksam was, "Swinging the doll around like a cavewoman", beating LaNew about the face and neck. LaNew died later in a nearby hospital as a result of her injuries.
A spokesman for Kmart stated, "Kmart does not, in anyway, support the use of dolls as weapons".
The victim's family is said to be considering filing a civil suit against the doll's manufacturer at a later date.
By Susan Allen-Rosario
Everett, Washinton
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