Prosecutors announced Tuesday that Nick Reiner, the son of filmmaker Rob Reiner, will be charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the killing of his parents.
Nick Reiner, 32, is suspected of killing his father, the 78-year-old actor and director Rob Reiner, known for films including The Princess Bride and When Harry Met Sally, and his mother, Michele Singer Reiner, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said at a news conference alongside the Los Angeles police chief.
“Their loss is beyond tragic, and we are committed to holding the killer accountable,” Hochman said, referring to the slayings that have shocked Hollywood and beyond.
Prosecutors plan to file two counts of first-degree murder with special circumstances for multiple victims. “This case is heartbreaking and deeply affecting, not only for the Reiner family and their loved ones but for the entire city,” the police chief said. “We will continue to support the family and ensure that every step we take is carried out with care, respect and determination.”
The announcement came two days after the couple were found dead in their home in the upscale Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles. Their son was arrested several hours later.
Nick Reiner had been scheduled to make his first court appearance Tuesday, but his attorney, Alan Jackson, said he was unable to appear due to medical reasons. The hearing was postponed.
Rob Reiner was widely regarded as one of the most influential and beloved filmmakers in American cinema, with a career that included classics such as This Is Spinal Tap, Stand by Me, The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally, Misery and A Few Good Men. He first rose to prominence as an actor on the iconic television series All in the Family and was the son of legendary comedian and creator Carl Reiner.