New Smyrna: Father Faces Murder Charge After Killing His Son

A 71-year-old man is facing criminal prosecution for the murder of his 45-year-old son in a family apartment on Sunday, May 11th. The father was charged with premeditated murder while in a calm mental state and with the use of a weapon. He has been referred to an investigator who is expected to request time for his defense. The incident occurred on Adan Street in New Smyrna, where the father allegedly used a knife. Reports suggest that the son had been using substances for over 20 years, leading to ongoing disputes with his father. The 71-year-old is set to appear before the prosecutor today for his defense and is expected to receive an extension. According to the father’s statement, the tragedy unfolded during an argument. He claimed he had no intention to kill but found himself under attack by his aggressive son. ‘My son was out of control; we fought intensely, and suddenly he attacked me. I lost it—I couldn’t handle him or stop him. I found a knife and thought to scare him off, but unintentionally inflicted fatal injuries,’ he told police. The brother of the deceased reportedly informed authorities that their sibling often caused tension at home. Meanwhile, the father reiterated to officers that he did not strike his son and suggested the injury might have occurred during the struggle. Behind this homicide lies a tragic family story. The victim had struggled repeatedly to escape drug addiction but failed. The 45-year-old died instantly, and afterward, the father cried out, ‘What have I done?’ Neighbors reported hearing the victim shouting, ‘My father stabbed me,’ before taking his last breath.