A man is alleged to have beheaded parents and their dog.
A brutal finding shocks a neighborhood in California's Orange County: A man is accused of beheading his parents and their dog. Neighbors report drug problems and a violent argument.
A shocking discovery was made in the US state of California on Thursday, as a 41-year-old man was charged with the murder of his parents and their dog. Joseph Brandon Gerdvil is accused of beheading the 77-year-old Ronald Walter Gerdvil, the 79-year-old Antoinette Gerdvil, and their dog. This was reported by US news outlet Fox 11.
The police were called to a trailer park in the city of San Juan Capistrano on Tuesday morning after receiving a call regarding domestic violence. Upon arrival, officers discovered the couple mutilated in their home, along with their pet, whose head had also been severed.
Shortly afterwards, another call came in: a blood-soaked man was reportedly seen following the caretaker of the housing complex. Suspecting a connection to the discovery, the officers swarmed the area and encountered Gerdvil in a supposedly stolen golf cart a short time later.
Initially, the security personnel attempted to make contact with him, but the situation escalated, and shots were fired. Gerdvil was hit multiple times and taken to the hospital in a critical, but stable condition. It is still unclear whether he had a firearm with him.
Neighbor reports argument between father and son
A neighbor reported to Fox 11 that he had seen Gerdvil arguing with his father on Monday: "The younger one hit him in the face and pointed a finger at it." He couldn't hear what Gerdvil had said to his father, "but he looked very angry." Another neighbor reported that Gerdvil had a drug problem and had been living with his parents as a result.
The slain couple were described by neighbors as friendly and peaceful. "The woman went for walks with her dog every day. Everyone knew who she was," said a neighbor. The Gerdvils "were a very sweet couple. To be murdered by their own son at this age is just tragic, full stop."
The neighborhood is still in shock following the indictment. Some residents fear further attacks and express fear: "There are many families with young children living here. It's terrible."
The brutal crime has sparked international interest, with news outlets around the world covering the story.
The United States justice system will now face the challenge of prosecuting Gerdvil for multiple counts of murder and manslaughter.
Despite the crime, dogs continue to be loyal companions, providing comfort and companionship to many, including families in the Californian neighborhood.
Police are cautiously monitoring the situation in the area, ensuring the safety of its residents and investigating any potential links to criminality or drug-related activities.
