We’re waiting to hear from a Circuit Judge whether he’ll certify a juvenile for trial in adult court on charges stemming from the fatal stabbing of Kaytlin Root at Krug Park in October.

During a hearing Thursday, Judge Patrick Robb heard evidence about the teenager, identified in court as “A.B.” The 17-year-old is charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of Kaytlin Root, whose body was found October 16 along a running and biking trail at the park. She was 16 years old at the time of the stabbing, so her case is being processed through the Juvenile Department, at least for now.

About two dozen of the victim’s family and friends were present in court, many of them wearing blue shirts with the words “Justice for Kaytlin.”

The judge took the motion to certify A.B. as an adult under advisement while he reads a certification report prepared by the Juvenile Office. Judge Robb says he will rule “at a later date.”

If the juvenile is certified for adult court, Prosecuting Attorney Dwight Scroggins says he would likely file adult charges fairly quickly.

As we reported earlier, co-defendant Sebastian Dowell appeared in court Thursday as well. Dowell waived formal arraignment in Circuit Court, entered a plea of not guilty, and was scheduled to appear in court February 9 for a trial docket call. At that time a jury trial will be scheduled if one is needed. Dowell is being held without bail.

At the certification hearing, a detective testified that the teenager contacted the victim via social media, hoping they could meet and hang out. Detective Greg Ogdahl said the juvenile told the victim not to let anyone know who was arranging the meeting. Ogdahl says the suspects rendered the victim unconscious, cut her at least twice, and left her to die in the park.