Arizona Man Accused of Killing Parents with Hammer, Knife

Jonathan Turk allegedly confessed to 911 dispatcher after attack

Apr. 2, 2026 at 8:05pm

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An extreme close-up of a hammer and knife against a dark background, capturing the stark, gritty details of the crime scene evidence in a dramatic, investigative style.A grim reminder of the tragic toll of untreated mental illness, as a hammer and knife used in a shocking family murder are preserved as evidence.Peoria Today

A 29-year-old Arizona man named Jonathan Turk is accused of killing his parents, Fraser Turk, 63, and Tina Turk, 56, with a hammer and knife at their Peoria home. Turk allegedly called 911 and confessed to the killings, telling dispatchers he attacked his parents because he was angry about being put on medication.

Why it matters

The case highlights ongoing concerns about mental health issues and the challenges families can face in getting proper care and support for loved ones. Neighbors described Turk as someone they had felt uneasy around prior to the violence.

The details

According to court documents, Turk called 911 around 6:29 p.m. on March 31 and admitted to the killings. Police later recovered a hammer and knife believed to have been used in the attack from a trash can inside the home. Prosecutors say the case follows a history of mental health concerns, with the victims having filed multiple mental health petitions involving Turk, including three in 2026.

  • On March 31, Turk allegedly killed his parents at their Peoria home.
  • Around 6:29 p.m. on March 31, Turk called 911 and confessed to the killings.

The players

Jonathan Turk

A 29-year-old Arizona resident accused of killing his parents with a hammer and knife.

Fraser Turk

The 63-year-old father of Jonathan Turk, who was killed in the attack.

Tina Turk

The 56-year-old mother of Jonathan Turk, who was killed in the attack.

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What they’re saying

“We have concerns about his mental health and mental stability at this time.”

— Prosecutor

“It was just a gut feeling. Like, a bad feeling. Like something was not right. I just always tried to walk on the other side of the street when I saw him out, and I just felt really uncomfortable because I have kids.”

— Neighbor

“They were the definition of a model couple. They were an anchor of kindness and devotion... My heart is absolutely broken, and I will miss them beyond measure.”

— Friend of the victims

What’s next

Turk faces two counts of first-degree murder and two counts of second-degree murder. His bond was set at $2 million cash-only, and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 9.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the critical need for improved mental health resources and support systems to help families address issues before they escalate to violence. It also raises questions about the challenges of balancing individual rights with public safety when it comes to individuals with mental health concerns.