Nick Reiner, the 32-year-old son of filmmaker Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner, is set to be charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of his parents. The couple were found dead in their Los Angeles home on Sunday afternoon.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced at a press conference on Tuesday that the charges would be formally filed in court later that day. Prosecutors allege that Nick Reiner used a knife to kill his parents. The charges carry a maximum penalty of life in prison without parole or the death penalty, though prosecutors have not yet decided whether to seek capital punishment.
Nick Reiner was arrested several hours after the bodies were discovered. Police said evidence gathered by homicide detectives led to the couple's younger son, who was taken into custody without incident. He has remained in a Los Angeles County lock-up since Sunday night.
Prominent defense lawyer Alan Jackson, representing Nick Reiner, said his client has not yet been medically cleared for his initial court appearance on Tuesday but may be arraigned on Wednesday. Various media outlets have reported that Nick Reiner was seen quarrelling with his parents on Saturday night at a holiday party hosted by comedian Conan O'Brien.
Nick Reiner, the younger of the Reiners' two sons, has spoken publicly about his struggles with substance abuse and homelessness. He worked as a screenwriter and co-wrote the 2016 film Being Charlie, which his father directed. Tributes have poured in for Rob Reiner, who was known for his film directing and acting career, as well as his liberal activism. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass called the loss devastating, noting Reiner's contributions to American culture and social justice.
