The prosecution in the Fayette County case charging a 24-year-old St. Peter man with first-degree murder is pursuing DNA testing of evidence taken in the investigation.

Alexander Beccue is charged with two counts first-degree murder for the August shooting death of Joshua Smith, of Ramsey. Beccue also faces counts of possession of a stolen motor vehicle and possession of a weapon by a felon.

Fayette County State’s Attorney Josh Morrison sought permission from the court Tuesday to conduct a DNA test in the case that would consume all of a sample. Defense attorney Ed Deters didn’t object to the test but asked that specific parameters be followed in the process.

Judge Don Sheafor approved the testing, but asked that a written order be prepared for him to sign authorizing the test, which is expected to be prepared after the holidays.

The case is next scheduled for a February 27 pre-trial hearing.