UPDATE: In a harrowing case from Acworth, Georgia, a toddler was discovered alive, covered in blood and cuddling with his shot-dead parents, Justin and Amber Hicks. The tragedy unfolded on November 17, 2021, when their neighbor, Matthew Scott Lanz, allegedly entered their home and fatally shot the couple while their two-year-old son slept upstairs.
Authorities confirmed that Lanz, who was arrested and found guilty of multiple charges including murder, was unaware that the child was in the house. The horrifying discovery was made when Justin’s father came to check on the couple after Amber failed to show up for work and did not respond to messages, as reported by Atlanta News First.
When police arrived, they found the toddler attempting to wake his parents, not realizing the gravity of the situation. He had been left alone for over 12 hours, wandering the house in unchanged diapers. Bodycam footage from the responding officers revealed the chilling scene, showcasing the innocent child’s confusion amidst the tragedy.
Lanz, who had a history of mental health issues including schizophrenia, faced a bench trial where prosecutors revealed no clear motive for the murders. Disturbingly, Lanz had previously reported seeing “demonic lights” in the Hicks’ home and claimed that his deceased brother was haunted by the previous owners of the property.
On October 27, 2023, Lanz was convicted of two counts of murder, four counts of felony murder, and several other charges. He received three life sentences, two of which are without parole, along with an additional 32 years to be served consecutively.
This case has raised significant concerns about mental health awareness and community safety, drawing attention to the devastating impact of such violent acts on innocent lives. As the community grapples with this tragedy, the focus remains on the young boy, now left without his parents, who is receiving support as he navigates this unimaginable loss.
As developments continue to unfold, authorities urge anyone with information related to domestic violence or mental health crises to seek help and report concerns. How this case will impact legislation on mental health and community safety remains to be seen.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.