Nick Reiner Charged with First-Degree Murder in Parents' Deaths

Nick Reiner Charged with First-Degree Murder in Parents' Deaths Los Angeles, California
Nick Reiner, the 32-year-old son of filmmaker Rob Reiner and photographer Michele Singer Reiner, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder. The announcement was made by Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman during a press conference on Tuesday. Details of the Charges The charges include a "special circumstance" of multiple murders and a "special allegation" that Reiner utilized a dangerous and deadly weapon, identified as a knife. These charges carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. District Attorney Hochman stated that no decision has yet been made regarding the pursuit of the death penalty. Discovery and Initial Investigation Authorities became aware of the deaths on Sunday following a call from the fire department. Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell indicated that the precise cause and time of the deaths are not yet available, pending updates from the coroner's office. Arrest and Background Information Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton of the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed that Nick Reiner was arrested in public on Sunday in the Exposition Park area of Los Angeles, near the University of Southern California campus. When questioned, Chief McDonnell was unable to comment on whether Nick Reiner was under the influence of drugs at the time of his arrest. Reiner has previously spoken publicly about his past struggles with addiction. District Attorney Hochman stated that any evidence related to mental illness in Nick Reiner's background or any potential admission of the crimes would be presented during court proceedings. He reiterated that charges do not constitute evidence and urged the public to rely on verified information rather than hearsay. Legal Process Moving Forward Prosecutors are in the process of filing the charges. Reiner is undergoing medical clearance, a standard procedure, and is expected to be brought to court for arraignment, where he will formally enter a plea. He is currently being held without bail. Hochman confirmed that his office would take the family's thoughts and desires into consideration throughout the legal process.