The children of slain Hollywood director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, have spoken publicly for the first time following their parents’ deaths and the arrest of their brother, Nick Reiner, on murder charges.
In a statement released on Wednesday, siblings Jake and Romy Reiner said they were experiencing “unimaginable pain” following what they described as a “horrific and devastating loss.” The statement did not directly address the allegations against their brother.
Nick Reiner, 32, appeared in court in downtown Los Angeles for the first time on Wednesday, where he waived his right to enter a plea on two counts of first-degree murder. His arraignment was postponed until 7 January, when he will again have the opportunity to plead.
Rob and Michele Reiner were found dead in their Los Angeles home on Sunday. The county medical examiner said on Wednesday that both died as a result of multiple sharp-force injuries, ruling the deaths a homicide.
Nick Reiner was taken into custody Sunday night and formally charged on Tuesday.
“The horrific and devastating loss of our parents, Rob and Michele Reiner, is something that no one should ever experience,” Jake and Romy said in the statement provided to CBS News. “They weren’t just our parents; they were our best friends.”
The siblings thanked the public for its support and asked for privacy, urging people to remember their parents “for the incredible lives they lived and the love they gave.”
During Wednesday’s hearing, Judge Theresa McGonigle ordered media not to film the defendant, who was wearing a suicide-prevention smock. Nick Reiner spoke only briefly, responding “yes, your honour” when asked if he understood his right to a speedy trial.
Media inside the courtroom had limited visibility of the defendant, who was seated out of view during the short proceedings. He will remain in custody at the Twin Towers Correctional Facility until his next court appearance.
Reiner’s attorney, Alan Jackson, said outside court that the case involved “complex and serious issues” that would need to be addressed in the coming weeks. He urged the public to allow the legal process to proceed without rushing to judgement.
Legal experts suggested the delay in entering a plea could allow time for a psychiatric evaluation to determine whether Reiner is fit to stand trial.
If convicted, Nick Reiner could face life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty, though prosecutors have said no decision has been made on whether they will seek capital punishment.
Rob Reiner was a celebrated filmmaker whose work included This Is Spinal Tap, Misery and A Few Good Men. Michele Singer Reiner was an actress, photographer and producer, and the founder of the production company Reiner Light.
Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell described the case as “heartbreaking and deeply personal” for both the Reiner family and the city.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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