Rob Reiner and Wife Michele’s Official Cause of Death Revealed by Coroner

Authorities confirm homicide after the acclaimed filmmaker and his wife were found dead in their Los Angeles home, as family and friends mourn an unimaginable loss

Authorities have released the official causes of death for legendary filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, following the discovery of their bodies at their Los Angeles residence on Sunday, December 14.

According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office, both Rob and Michele Reiner died from multiple sharp force injuries. The manner of death for each was ruled a homicide, with the place of death listed as their Brentwood home. Official reports confirm that both were pronounced dead on Sunday, having last been seen alive on the evening of December 13.

Tragic Discovery at the Family Home

The devastating discovery was made Sunday afternoon when the couple’s daughter, Romy Reiner, arrived at their home and found her father’s body. A roommate who accompanied her immediately called 911. When authorities arrived at the scene, they discovered Michele Reiner’s body as well.

The Los Angeles Police Department launched an investigation that quickly escalated due to the nature of the injuries and circumstances surrounding the deaths.

Son Arrested and Charged

On Monday, the LAPD announced that their investigation had concluded that the couple’s 32-year-old son, Nick Reiner, was responsible for their deaths. He was arrested Sunday evening around 9:15 p.m. in the Exposition Park area of Los Angeles and formally taken into custody early Monday morning. Authorities confirmed that he did not resist arrest.

On Tuesday, Nick Reiner was formally charged with two counts of first-degree murder, along with a special circumstance allegation of multiple murders. Prosecutors also added a special allegation that he personally used a dangerous and deadly weapon, a knife. If convicted, he faces life in state prison without the possibility of parole, or the death penalty.

Nick appeared in court for the first time on Wednesday morning, where he waived his right to a speedy arraignment. No plea was entered at that time, and the judge ordered him held without bail until his arraignment, scheduled for January 7, 2026.

Family Speaks Out in Grief

In a statement shared with PEOPLE, siblings Romy and Jake Reiner expressed profound sorrow over the loss of their parents.

“Words cannot even begin to describe the unimaginable pain we are experiencing every moment of the day,” they said. “The horrific and devastating loss of our parents, Rob and Michele Reiner, is something that no one should ever experience. They weren’t just our parents; they were our best friends.”

They added a plea for compassion and privacy, asking that speculation be tempered with humanity and that their parents be remembered “for the incredible lives they lived and the love they gave.”

Rob Reiner’s eldest daughter, Tracy Reiner, whom he adopted during his marriage to the late Penny Marshall, also spoke publicly, telling NBC News, “I came from the greatest family ever. I don’t know what to say. I’m in shock.”

Tributes From Hollywood’s Closest Circle

The loss of Rob and Michele Reiner has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. A joint statement from their closest friends and collaborators described the couple as “a special force together — dynamic, unselfish, and inspiring.”

The statement was signed by a wide circle of Hollywood figures, including Billy Crystal, Albert Brooks, Martin Short, Alan Zweibel, Larry David, Marc Shaiman, Barry Levinson, and others, all of whom spoke to the enduring impact of Reiner’s work and the warmth the couple shared with those around them.

Remembering a Lasting Legacy

Rob Reiner leaves behind an extraordinary legacy as an actor, director, and cultural force, with timeless films such as The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally…, This Is Spinal Tap, and A Few Good Men. Michele Reiner, a producer and photographer, was known for her creative spirit, advocacy, and unwavering partnership with her husband.

As investigations continue and legal proceedings unfold, the focus for many remains on honoring the lives, love, and contributions of two people whose influence extended far beyond Hollywood — and whose loss has left an indelible mark on family, friends, and audiences worldwide.