Nick Reiner Faces Death Penalty Consideration After Alleged Murder of Parents in Brentwood

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman is weighing whether to seek the death penalty on first-degree murder charges against Nick Reiner, who is accused of killing his parents—actor and director Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Singer Reiner.

Prosecutors have alleged special circumstances involving multiple murders, making the death penalty a legal possibility in California despite its rarity. Hochman confirmed it remains under consideration but stated he has not yet decided whether to pursue it. He said prosecutors will evaluate the “thoughts and desires of the family” before finalizing their decision. Reiner could also face a life sentence without parole.

Rob Reiner, 78, and Michele Singer Reiner, 68, were found dead from multiple stab wounds on December 14 inside their Brentwood home. Nick Reiner, 32, was arrested that night and remains in custody.

Reiner has a public history of addiction and substance abuse, including issues depicted in his 2015 film “Being Charlie,” which he co-produced with his father. He had been living with his parents for several weeks prior to the killings.

Hochman described the case as involving a “deadly weapon or a knife” but stated: “Do I anticipate it being particularly fast? No. I anticipate it being rather thorough.”

Nick Reiner’s newly appointed defense attorney, Alan Jackson—a former Los Angeles County prosecutor who has handled high-profile cases including Harvey Weinstein and Karen Read—said his client will approach the legal process one day at a time. Reiner appeared in court Wednesday for the first time after being charged. He did not enter a plea and participated from a secured custody area behind glass while restrained and dressed in a suicide prevention smock. His arraignment was continued to January 7 at the request of his attorney, with Reiner responding only with “yes, your honor” to confirm the new date.

Investigators reported that Reiner offered no resistance when arrested near Exposition Park, about 14 miles from the Brentwood home where the murders occurred. Hochman added: “Their loss is beyond tragic, and we will commit ourselves to bringing their murderer to justice.”