Former Turnstile Guitarist Brady Ebert Faces Upgraded Attempted Murder Charge

Former Turnstile guitarist Brady Ebert is now facing significantly more serious legal consequences after prosecutors upgraded charges against him to attempted first-degree murder in connection with an alleged vehicular attack earlier this year.

The case stems from an incident on March 29 involving 79-year-old William Yates, the father of Turnstile frontman Brendan Yates. According to statements previously released by the band, Ebert is accused of deliberately using a vehicle to strike William Yates, causing severe injuries. Authorities initially charged Ebert with attempted second-degree murder and first-degree assault.

A Montgomery County grand jury has since issued a formal indictment elevating the most serious charge to attempted first-degree murder. If convicted, that charge carries the possibility of a life sentence. In addition to the upgraded count, Ebert is also facing multiple related charges, including attempted second-degree murder, first-degree assault, and two counts of second-degree assault.

The legal escalation marks a critical turning point in the case, as prosecutors appear to be arguing that the alleged act involved premeditation, a key distinction between first- and second-degree attempted murder under Maryland law.

He has previously denied wrongdoing, maintaining that his actions were in self-defense. During an earlier court proceeding, he reportedly told a district court commissioner, “This is pure self-defense.” His legal team has not publicly outlined a detailed defense strategy beyond that initial statement.

The incident has drawn significant attention within the music community, particularly given Ebert’s former role in Turnstile, one of the most prominent bands in contemporary hardcore and alternative rock. Ebert had already parted ways with the group in 2022, with the band citing ongoing concerns about his behavior at the time.

In a statement released after his departure, Turnstile said it had severed ties following what it described as a “consistent pattern of harmful behavior” that affected both the band and those around him. The group indicated that efforts had been made to support Ebert, including attempts to encourage access to help and recovery resources, but ultimately concluded that maintaining distance was necessary.

The band also referenced what it characterized as escalating threats and public outbursts in the years following his exit. At the time, they stated they had chosen not to publicly detail the circumstances surrounding his departure, citing a desire to respect privacy. That stance shifted after the March incident, when the band issued a more direct statement about the situation.

In the immediate aftermath of the alleged attack, Turnstile incorporated a tribute to William Yates into a live performance, opening a set at a major festival with a video honoring him.

Details about William Yates’ current condition have not been widely disclosed in court filings, though earlier reports described the injuries as severe.

Ebert is scheduled to appear in court again on May 8.