New video footage has surfaced showing Nick Reiner’s activities just before he was detained in connection with his parents’ tragic demise.
On the afternoon of December 14th, authorities reported the deaths of Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner in their Brentwood, Los Angeles home. They had responded to a call regarding ‘medical assistance’ at approximately 3:30 p.m. local time.
Details later emerged that the 78-year-old acclaimed Hollywood director and his spouse of over thirty years were victims of a fatal stabbing. It is believed that their youngest child, Romy, aged 28, discovered the dreadful scene in their $13.5 million residence and immediately contacted emergency services.
The couple’s second child, Nick, has been detained and is facing charges of two counts of first-degree murder. Additionally, he is accused of wielding a dangerous weapon, identified as a knife, during the alleged crime against his parents.
Recently released CCTV footage appears to capture the 32-year-old’s actions just prior to law enforcement apprehending him, hours after the crime scene was discovered.
The disturbing footage shows Nick, donning a hat and carrying a backpack on one shoulder, casually moving through a gas station store in Exposition Park. He picks up a drink and queues to pay, moments before a law enforcement officer enters the establishment.
Immediately, Nick’s demeanor seems to change upon facing the officer while standing in line.
Another segment of the video depicts Nick walking along the sidewalk as police vehicles surround him, roughly four miles from the crime site near Exposition Boulevard and Vermont Avenue on that Sunday evening.
As officers step out of their vehicles, Nick raises his hands in what appears to be an act of surrender. He is then handcuffed and taken into custody.
Nick Reiner, who has previously been open about his battles with drug addiction and mental health issues dating back to his teenage years, reportedly had a confrontation with his parents at a Christmas gathering hosted by comedian Conan O’Brien the previous night.
NBC News cited an insider mentioning that his parents were reportedly ashamed of his behavior and were worried about his well-being.
TMZ disclosed that Rob Reiner and his son were involved in a ‘very loud argument’ at the celebrity-filled event, with additional sources telling PEOPLE that Nick was ‘causing distress among guests.’
After being formally charged with the federal murder allegations, which could result in the death penalty upon conviction, Nick was expected to appear in court on December 16th. However, his attorney indicated he was unable to appear due to medical reasons.
Alan Jackson, who previously defended Harvey Weinstein in his notorious rape trial, stated his client had not been ‘medically cleared’ for a court appearance.
Nick has yet to enter a plea in the case.