Police in Los Angeles have arrested and charged Nick Reiner, the son of renowned Hollywood director Rob Reiner, with murder following the deaths of his parents at their home in California.
Authorities said the bodies of Rob Reiner, 78, and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, 70, were discovered on Sunday at their residence in the upscale Brentwood neighbourhood.
Investigators said the couple appeared to have been violently killed, with multiple reports indicating stab wounds.
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell confirmed that Nick Reiner, 32, was taken into custody a few hours after police were alerted to the incident and was subsequently booked on two counts of murder.
“He was arrested shortly after the alarm was raised and remains in custody,” McDonnell told reporters.
Media reports indicated that the suspect had engaged in a heated argument with his parents at a social event the night before the killings.
Nick Reiner is also reported to have struggled with substance abuse since his teenage years.
Entertainment outlet TMZ reported that the bodies were discovered by the couple’s daughter, who reportedly informed police that another family member was responsible for the deaths.
The killings have sent shockwaves through Hollywood, with tributes pouring in from actors, filmmakers and political figures across the United States.
Rob Reiner, the son of legendary comedian Carl Reiner, was a prominent figure in American cinema, directing acclaimed films such as This Is Spinal Tap, The Princess Bride, Stand By Me, When Harry Met Sally, and A Few Good Men.
The case remains under investigation as police continue to gather evidence surrounding the circumstances of the killings.