Chilling details emerge in Rob Reiner, wife’s double murder: Rigor mortis set in, son missing before arrest
Fresh and chilling details have emerged in the murder of filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, with news outlet TMZ reporting that the elderly couple had been dead for several hours before their daughter, Romy, discovered their bodies on Sunday (local time).
According to law enforcement officials who spoke to the outlet, rigor mortis had already set in by the time police arrived at the crime scene, confirming that the couple had been killed hours before the discovery. The shocking revelation has added to the grim nature of the investigation surrounding the double murder.
Romy was interviewed by police at her parents’ house, where she allegedly told investigators that her brother, Nick Reiner — who had been living with their parents at the time — was “dangerous.”
Nick was not found at the scene, sparking immediate speculation that he may have fled after allegedly killing his parents. Sources familiar with the investigation described the crime scene to TMZ as appearing to be the work of a “mad man.”
Approximately six hours after the bodies were discovered, police arrested Nick Reiner. He is currently being held without bail and has been placed on suicide watch.
Prosecutors have now formally charged Nick Reiner with two counts of first-degree murder. The announcement was made at a news conference in Los Angeles by District Attorney Nathan Hochman, alongside the city’s police chief, Jim McDonnell. Authorities confirmed that Nick is accused of murdering both Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner.
In addition to the murder charges, prosecutors have added special circumstances alleging multiple murders, along with an allegation that a knife — considered a dangerous weapon — was used in the killings. These enhancements could lead to a significantly harsher sentence if Nick Reiner is convicted.
“This case is heartbreaking and deeply personal, not only for the Reiner family and their loved ones but for our entire city,” Police Chief Jim McDonnell said, as quoted by the Associated Press. “We will continue to support the Reiner family and ensure that every step forward is taken with care, dignity, and resolve,” he added.
Nick Reiner is being represented by high-profile defence attorney Alan Jackson, who previously represented disgraced Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein during his Los Angeles trial.