Rob Reiner's son Nick was diagnosed with schizophrenia?
What's the story
Nick Reiner, the son of Hollywood director Rob Reiner and producer Michele Singer Reiner, was reportedly diagnosed with schizophrenia before he allegedly murdered his parents. The shocking incident took place in their Los Angeles home on December 14. Reiner has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder, and prosecutors say a knife was used as the murder weapon.
Medication impact
Reiner's behavior changed after medication adjustment
Reiner, 32, was being treated for his condition by a psychiatrist at a high-end Los Angeles mental health and substance abuse facility. However, three to four weeks before the murders, his prescription was altered, which made him "erratic and dangerous," sources told TMZ. The adjustment reportedly worsened his behavior as doctors struggled to stabilize him with new medications.
Addiction struggles
Reiner's history of drug addiction and legal troubles
Reiner has battled drug addiction for over half his life, undergoing more than a dozen rehab programs since he was 15. He allegedly killed his parents after a public argument with his father at Conan O'Brien's Christmas party. The bodies of Rob, 78, and Singer Reiner, 70, were discovered by their daughter Romy on the afternoon of December 14.
Legal proceedings
Reiner's arrest and court appearance
Reiner was arrested at a gas station by the LAPD's Gang and Narcotics Unit on the same day. He appeared in court for the first time on Wednesday, wearing a suicide prevention gown and a waist shackle. His lawyer, Alan Jackson, said it was too early to enter a plea, so the arraignment has been postponed to next month. Reiner is currently facing charges of double homicide with special circumstances of multiple murders with a deadly weapon.
Family statement
Siblings of Reiner expressed grief and requested privacy
Reiner's siblings, Jake and Romy, released a joint statement expressing their grief over the loss of their parents. "Words cannot even begin to describe the unimaginable pain we are experiencing every moment of the day," they said in a statement. They also thanked supporters for their condolences and requested respect and privacy during this difficult time.