Auburn man arrested in mother's murder

Suspect confessed to killing, blamed demon possession in statement

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A 30-year-old Auburn man was arrested Tuesday for investigation of murder after authorities said he killed his mother at a condo in unincorporated King County. The suspect told police he thought he killed his mother during an argument about school and money, and blamed a demon from his TV for possessing him to commit the crime.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the importance of mental health support and access to proper medication, especially for individuals with a history of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It also raises questions about the role of mental illness in violent crimes and how the criminal justice system should approach such cases.

The details

According to the probable cause statement, the suspect told detectives he put his mother in a chokehold and stomped on her neck during the argument. After the incident, he tried to 'heal' her by putting pillows and blankets on top of her. The condo owner told police the suspect has been diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and has a history of violence when not medicated. The suspect reportedly stopped taking his prescribed medication five months ago.

  • On Tuesday, February 26, 2026, King County Sheriff's deputies responded to a 911 call at approximately 1:50 p.m.
  • The suspect was found just before 4 p.m. on Tuesday, February 26, 2026 in a bedroom and was taken into custody.

The players

30-year-old Auburn man

The suspect who was arrested for investigation of murder in the death of his mother.

Victim

The suspect's mother, who was found unresponsive with clear signs of injuries to her face and later pronounced dead.

Condo owner

Provided a statement to police that the suspect has been diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, and has a history of violence when not medicated.

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What they’re saying

“He blamed a demon from his TV for possessing him to kill his mother, but later stated that the demon had possessed his mother.”

— Suspect (Probable cause statement)

What’s next

The King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office expects to have a charging decision by Friday.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the critical need for improved mental health support and access to proper medication, especially for individuals with a history of severe mental illness. It also raises complex questions about the role of mental illness in violent crimes and how the criminal justice system should approach such cases to balance public safety with compassion and rehabilitation.