The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has officially determined the cause of death for acclaimed film director Rob Reiner and his wife, photographer Michele Singer Reiner. The report concludes both died from multiple sharp force injuries, with the manner of death listed as homicide.
Details of the Tragic Discovery
The couple's bodies were discovered at their Brentwood, Los Angeles home on Sunday 14 December. Their daughter, Romy, found them after going to check on their welfare. The same day, their son, Nick Reiner, was arrested and has since been charged with two counts of first-degree murder, with the added allegation of using a dangerous weapon, reported to be a knife.
Court Appearance and Family Statements
Nick Reiner made his first court appearance on Wednesday 17 December. He did not enter a plea. According to reporters in the courtroom, he was largely hidden from view, appeared shackled, and wore a suicide prevention vest. He is due back in court for an arraignment hearing on 7 January.
In a heartbreaking statement to People magazine, the Reiners' children, Romy and Jake, expressed their profound grief: "Words cannot even begin to describe the unimaginable pain we are experiencing... They weren't just our parents; they were our best friends."
Tributes have also poured in from the entertainment industry. Meg Ryan, star of Reiner's classic film When Harry Met Sally, posted: "Thank you for your faith in the best in people, and for your profound love of our country."
Industry Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The release of Rob Reiner's final project, a concert film featuring Spinal Tap at Stonehenge, has been delayed in the wake of the tragedy. The investigation by Los Angeles authorities remains active as the legal process against Nick Reiner moves forward.
The medical examiner's report has provided definitive clarity on the circumstances, confirming the violent nature of the deaths that have shocked Hollywood and fans worldwide.
