Nick Reiner, 32, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder in connection with the deaths of his parents, filmmaker Rob Reiner and photographer Michele Singer Reiner. The parents were discovered deceased in their Los Angeles residence on Sunday, and Nick Reiner was arrested the same day. He appeared in court on Wednesday, where his arraignment was postponed until January 7.
Charges and Arrest
Authorities were alerted to the deaths of Rob and Michele Reiner on Sunday after a call from the fire department. The couple was found deceased in their Los Angeles home, having sustained multiple stab wounds.
Nick Reiner was arrested on Sunday in the Exposition Park area of Los Angeles, near the University of Southern California campus. Surveillance footage reportedly captured Reiner at a convenience store prior to his apprehension.
On Tuesday, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman announced that Nick Reiner faces two counts of first-degree murder. The charges include a special circumstance allegation of multiple murders and a special allegation related to the use of a dangerous and deadly weapon, identified as a knife. If convicted, these charges carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, potentially without the possibility of parole. A decision regarding whether to seek the death penalty has not yet been finalized. Mr. Reiner is currently being held without bail.
Court Proceedings
Nick Reiner's initial court appearance, which had been anticipated for Tuesday, was postponed due to him not being medically cleared by prison officials. He appeared in a Los Angeles court on Wednesday.
During the hearing, presided over by Judge Theresa McGonigle, Mr. Reiner waived his right to enter a plea. His arraignment has been postponed until January 7. Judge McGonigle issued an order instructing media not to film the defendant, who was observed wearing a jail suicide-prevention smock.
Outside the courthouse, Mr. Reiner's defense lawyer, Alan Jackson, stated that the case involves "complex and serious issues" that will require time to address. Mr. Jackson requested that the legal process be allowed to proceed with "restraint and dignity," cautioning against a "rush to judgment." Criminal defense lawyer Seth Zuckerman suggested that the delay in entering a plea could facilitate a psychiatric evaluation to determine the defendant's fitness to stand trial.
Investigation Details and Official Comments
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell noted that the exact cause and time of death are pending updates from the coroner's office. When questioned, Chief McDonnell did not confirm whether Nick Reiner was under the influence of drugs at the time of his arrest. Reiner has previously publicly addressed struggles with addiction.
District Attorney Hochman declined to comment on the presence of mental illness evidence in Reiner's background or whether Reiner admitted to the crimes, stating that such information would be presented in court proceedings. Hochman emphasized that "charges are not evidence" and affirmed his office's intention to present evidence to jurors in a court of law. He also stated that the family's thoughts and desires would be taken into consideration during the legal process.
Background of the Deceased
Rob Reiner was a film director known for works such as This Is Spinal Tap, Misery, and A Few Good Men. Michele Singer Reiner was an actress, photographer, producer, and the founder of Reiner Light, a photography and production company. Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell acknowledged the case's impact during a news conference.
Family Statement
Jake and Romy Reiner, siblings of Nick Reiner and children of the deceased, issued a statement on Wednesday. They expressed appreciation for support received and requested privacy. The statement described the loss of their parents as "horrific and devastating" and indicated they are experiencing "unimaginable pain." They requested that "speculation be tempered with compassion and humanity" and asked for their parents to be remembered for their lives. The statement did not directly address the allegations against their brother.