REPORT: Rob Reiner Son Had Heated Argument At Holiday Party

Authorities are continuing to investigate the killings of filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, after the longtime Hollywood couple were found dead inside their Los Angeles home in what police have confirmed is a homicide case that has sent shockwaves through the entertainment world.

The bodies of the 78 year old director and his 68 year old wife were discovered Sunday afternoon at their Brentwood residence after emergency responders were called to the home for a reported medical emergency. Upon arrival, officers determined the deaths were suspicious and quickly escalated the matter to a full criminal investigation led by the Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery Homicide Division.

According to law enforcement sources, both victims suffered fatal stab wounds. Police have not released the official cause of death pending results from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, but investigators have confirmed the injuries were consistent with a violent attack. Detectives secured the scene for several hours as forensic teams collected evidence and canvassed the area for surveillance footage and potential witnesses. Authorities said there were no immediate signs of forced entry, prompting early focus on individuals known to the couple.

Within hours of the discovery, police arrested Nick Reiner, the couple’s 32 year old son, in connection with the killings. He was booked Monday morning on suspicion of murder and is currently being held on four million dollars bail. Investigators have not publicly detailed a motive, and prosecutors have not yet announced whether formal charges will be filed, emphasizing that the investigation remains active.

Nick Reiner, Rob Reiner Photo courtesy of Tony Turner, Montclair Film Festival 2016

New reporting from TMZ has added troubling context to the days leading up to the killings. According to the outlet, Rob Reiner, Michele Reiner, and their son Nick attended Conan O’Brien’s Christmas party on Saturday night, just hours before the couple were found dead. Sources told TMZ that Rob and Nick became involved in a “very loud argument” during the gathering, loud enough for other guests to hear.

TMZ reported that Rob and Michele left the party shortly after the confrontation. It remains unclear whether Nick left at the same time. Family sources also told the outlet that Michele had confided in friends over recent months that she and Rob were at their “wits’ end” over Nick’s mental illness and alleged substance abuse issues. According to those sources, Michele told friends, “We’ve tried everything,” expressing distress over not knowing how to help their son.

Authorities have not confirmed whether the argument or the reported family struggles are directly connected to the killings, and investigators have cautioned against drawing conclusions as evidence continues to be reviewed.

Rob Reiner was one of Hollywood’s most influential figures, first rising to prominence as an actor on the television series All in the Family before becoming an acclaimed director. His films include Stand By Me, The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally, Misery, and A Few Good Men, which helped define multiple eras of American cinema. Michele Singer Reiner was a photographer and creative collaborator who remained largely out of the spotlight while supporting her husband’s career.

As the investigation continues, LAPD officials say additional details will be released when appropriate, while prosecutors prepare to determine next steps in one of the most high profile homicide cases in recent Los Angeles history.