Nazareth Man Will Stand Trial for July Homicide

An Nazareth man has been ordered to stand trial for the murder of 36-year-old Richard Parker, who was dating his ex-girlfriend, Jessica Drake.

The three were all reportedly close friends.

Drake, of Emmaus, was spending time with Parker at the Moore Township garage where he fixed cars on the evening of July 10. According to Drake’s statements at Hess’s September 17 hearing, Hess reportedly texted Drake, asking her to hang out, but she told him she was with Parker.

Later on Drake noticed Hess had called her, but she ignored the call. The couple fell asleep in the garage. Hess broke in the next morning and stabbed Parker.

As Drake attempted to stem Parker’s bleeding and called 911, Hess asked her, “I’m going to jail, aren’t I?”

Hess has been charged with homicide and has been ordered to stand trial. He is being held at the county jail.