A grand jury in Los Angeles County has charged Nick Reiner with murder for the deaths of his parents, actor Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner, alleging that he ambushed them. The indictment was issued on July 20 after a period of secret deliberation and was made public when Nick Reiner pleaded not guilty.

The prominent Hollywood figures, Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner, were fatally stabbed in their Brentwood home on December 14. Nick Reiner was apprehended shortly after the incident and formally accused two days later.

The grand jury’s decision marks a significant progression towards a trial, bypassing the typical preliminary hearing process in California that would publicly present evidence.

Although the unsealed indictment does not offer many new insights into the case’s ongoing secrecy, the “lying in wait” accusation and other factors could potentially make Reiner eligible for the death penalty, pending a decision by the prosecutors.

District Attorney Nathan Hochman remarked on the situation, describing it as a deep betrayal by someone who was close to the victims. The District Attorney expressed hope that the grand jury’s indictment would pave the way for justice through a trial.

Requests for comments from Nick Reiner’s legal representatives have not been promptly responded to.