A Michigan woman, Katie Lee, faces charges after allegedly killing her son just one day before his 18th birthday. The estranged mother reportedly told authorities he wanted to die. She has been charged with open murder and resisting arrest, as per court records.
The Holland Department of Public Safety stated that officers responded to Lee’s residence on the morning of February 21 following a domestic disturbance call. Upon arrival, they found Lee, 39, armed with a knife.
She was taken into custody after officers used a Taser to subdue her. Inside the apartment, police discovered the body of her 17-year-old son, Austin Dean Pikaart.
A criminal complaint obtained by WZZM and WOOD revealed that Katie Lee had contacted 911. The estranged mother allegedly told dispatchers she had been “trying for a while” to stop Austin from breathing but was unsuccessful.
According to WZZM’s report, authorities claim Lee told dispatchers that she and her son had attempted suicide together by overdosing on medication. When Austin eventually lost consciousness, she allegedly used a knife to cut his throat and arm.
Lee reportedly told officers she wished for them to end her life so she could reunite with her son, according to WOOD. During a court hearing on February 24, a detective testified that Lee claimed her son had asked for help in ending his life because he did not want to turn 18.
Katie Lee entered a plea of not guilty, and the judge denied her bond. She is scheduled to appear in court again on March 4, according to records. Austin’s online obituary described him as having a kind and gentle personality, a deep passion for cats, science, books, fishing with his father, rollercoasters, and video games.
#Clique, what are your thoughts?
