An Indiana man has been accused of killing his 81-year-old father and trying to kill his mother.
Indianapolis Police responded to the home of John and Olanna Pedigo late last week and found John Pedigo dead and Olanna with serious injuries, WISH reported.
The investigation began when the couple’s 54-year-old son, Bryan Pedigo, reportedly told a friend that he had killed his father. Officers did not find the Pedigos when they first responded, but when they returned, they found John Pedigo’s body wrapped in a rug and Olanna Pedigo showing signs of physical abuse.
An autopsy ruled John Pedigo’s death a homicide by blunt force trauma. Court documents say he had marks around his neck and candle wax poured over his face, according to WTHR. Additionally, his pickup truck was missing.
Olanna Pedigo initially could not recalled what happened, although she initially appeared doubtful that her son was involved. Later, however, she told investigators, “I wonder if my son had anything to do with this,” WISH said.
She was found with severe injuries, including bruising and a brain bleed.
Shelley Gindling, the Pedigos’ niece, said that her cousin had mental health issues and had been arrested and served time in prison several times, WTHR reported.
“This has shattered our family in ways that are just hard for me to even put into words,” she said. “There was simply no excuse for taking his father’s life.”
Bryan Pedigo was arraigned Wednesday on charges of murder, attempted murder, aggravated battery, and auto theft.
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[Featured image: Bryan Pedigo/Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department]