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Coeur d'Alene Today
By the People, for the People
Idaho Man Arrested Near LA, Charged With Mother's Murder
Neil F. Stratton faces first-degree murder, burglary, and evidence destruction charges.
Apr. 18, 2026 at 8:19pm
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A recent arrest highlights the grim realities of family-related homicides and the relentless efforts of law enforcement to bring suspects to justice.Coeur d'Alene TodayA 52-year-old Coeur d'Alene, Idaho man has been arrested near Los Angeles and charged with the 2025 murder of his 77-year-old mother, Susan M. Stratton. Neil F. Stratton was identified as a suspect early in the investigation and was apprehended by U.S. Marshals as he was preparing to board a flight to China.
Why it matters
This case highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in tracking down suspects who attempt to flee the jurisdiction, as well as the tragic nature of family-related homicides. The arrest brings some closure to the community, though the loss of Susan Stratton is deeply felt.
The details
According to police, in September 2025, officers responded to a report of an unconscious elderly woman in Coeur d'Alene and found Susan Stratton with severe injuries. She was rushed to the hospital but later died. Investigators ruled her death a homicide. After an extensive investigation, police obtained an arrest warrant for Susan's son, Neil Stratton, charging him with first-degree murder, burglary, and felony destruction of evidence.
- In September 2025, police responded to a report of an unconscious elderly woman in Coeur d'Alene.
- On April 16, 2026, police obtained an arrest warrant for Neil Stratton.
- On April 18, 2026, Neil Stratton was arrested near Los Angeles by U.S. Marshals.
The players
Neil F. Stratton
A 52-year-old Coeur d'Alene, Idaho man charged with the first-degree murder of his 77-year-old mother, Susan M. Stratton.
Susan M. Stratton
A 77-year-old woman from Coeur d'Alene, Idaho who was murdered in September 2025.
Coeur d'Alene Police Department
The law enforcement agency that investigated the murder of Susan M. Stratton and obtained an arrest warrant for her son, Neil F. Stratton.
U.S. Marshals
The federal law enforcement agency that apprehended Neil F. Stratton near Los Angeles as he was preparing to board a flight to China.
Dan Gookin
The mayor of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho who commended the city's police department for their efforts in the investigation.
What they’re saying
“I remain supportive and proud of the Coeur d'Alene Police Department, led by Dave Hagar, and this is an example of their commitment to aggressively investigate crimes and seek justice on behalf of the members of our community.”
— Dan Gookin, Mayor of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
What’s next
Neil Stratton is awaiting extradition back to Idaho to face the charges against him.
The takeaway
This tragic case highlights the importance of thorough police investigations and the challenges law enforcement faces in apprehending suspects who attempt to flee. While the arrest brings some closure, the loss of Susan Stratton is deeply felt by the Coeur d'Alene community.
