Los Angeles, CA – In a shocking turn of events, Nick Reiner, the 32-year-old son of acclaimed director Rob Reiner and his wife, photographer Michele Singer Reiner, has been arrested in connection with their deaths. The couple was found dead in their Brentwood home on Sunday afternoon, prompting an investigation that has now led to the arrest of their son.
According to Los Angeles jail records, Nick Reiner was taken into custody on Sunday night. He is being held on a $4 million bail. While initial reports cited "gang activity" as the felony charge, later reports indicate Nick was booked on suspicion of murder. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) has not yet released specific details regarding the cause for the arrest but confirmed that detectives from the Robbery-Homicide Division are investigating the deaths as an apparent double homicide.
Rob Reiner, 78, known for directing iconic films such as "The Princess Bride" and "When Harry Met Sally," and Michele Reiner, 68, were discovered after the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a medical aid call at their residence around 3:30 p.m. local time. Reports indicate that their daughter, Romy, who lives nearby, found them. Both TMZ and People reported that the couple had suffered wounds consistent with a knife attack.
The Reiner family has yet to release an official statement, but a spokesperson confirmed Rob and Michele Reiner's deaths on Sunday evening. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has called Reiner's death a devastating loss for the city, highlighting his contributions to American culture and his advocacy for social and economic justice.
Sources indicate that Nick Reiner has struggled with addiction and mental health issues for many years. He reportedly began using substances at a young age and cycled through numerous treatment facilities, experiencing periods of homelessness. In 2015, Nick co-wrote the film "Being Charlie," which drew from his personal experiences with addiction and homelessness.
Adding another layer to the tragedy, family friends told the Los Angeles Times that Rob and Nick Reiner had a loud argument Saturday evening at a Christmas party at Conan O'Brien's home. Witnesses noticed Nick behaving strangely at the party. TMZ reported that Rob and Michele Reiner left the party after the argument, but it is unknown if Nick also departed. Michele Reiner had reportedly confided in close friends about her concerns regarding Nick's addiction and mental health.
The investigation is ongoing, and the LAPD is continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses. Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.
