News Summary
A 37-year-old man, Nicholas Steven Kirchner, has been taken into custody for the alleged murder of his parents, Elizabeth and Steven Kirchner, found shot dead in their Largo home. The incident was reported following a welfare check initiated due to concerns from an employer. Nicholas reportedly fled the scene and later made threats in a separate incident in South Carolina. He has since admitted to the killings, labeling them a ‘righteous kill’ and is facing serious charges, including two counts of premeditated first-degree murder.
Largo, Florida – Son Arrested for Allegedly Murdering Parents
A 37-year-old man, Nicholas Steven Kirchner, has been arrested for the alleged murder of his parents, Elizabeth Lee Kirchner, 53, and Steven Eric Kirchner, 64, at their Largo home. Authorities discovered both victims shot to death in their living room on Saunders Avenue shortly after 12:30 p.m. on Friday, following a welfare check that was initiated due to concerns from an employer about an employee who had failed to report to work.
According to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO), deputies found the couple with gunshot wounds upon arrival. Initial investigations revealed that Nicholas Kirchner had fled the scene before law enforcement arrived. Shortly after the discovery of the double homicide, the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office in South Carolina informed PCSO about a separate incident involving Nicholas, in which he allegedly made threats and held a family member at gunpoint.
During this disconcerting event in South Carolina, Nicholas reportedly told witnesses that he had already killed two people and would not hesitate to kill more. Following this, he left the scene in a vehicle and eluded law enforcement until he was located and arrested by the Taliaferro County Sheriff’s Office in Georgia.
Once in custody, Nicholas Kirchner allegedly admitted multiple times to having killed his parents. He referred to the act as a “righteous kill,” which has raised serious concerns about his mental state. In light of these circumstances, he has been charged with two counts of premeditated first-degree murder.
Nicholas is currently held at the McDuffie County Jail in Georgia as the investigation into the double homicide continues. PCSO officials have confirmed that they are actively pursuing additional details surrounding the incident and have not ruled out further charges.
Background on the Incident
The tragic events unfolded shortly after a concerned party reported that Elizabeth Kirchner did not show up for work, prompting the request for the welfare check. Tragically, this check revealed a scene that underscored the severity of family violence and mental health issues.
Family members and friends are reportedly in shock following the incident, having difficulty reconciling the events leading to such a tragic conclusion. The Kirchners had been active members of the Largo community, making the news particularly shocking to those who knew them.
If convicted, Nicholas Kirchner faces severe penalties, including life imprisonment for the premeditated murders of his parents. The case has raised important questions about family dynamics, mental health awareness, and the barriers to seeking help in times of crisis.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to gather evidence and speak with witnesses to piece together the full circumstances surrounding the tragedy. Community resources and support systems are also being assessed to address the aftereffects of this incident on families and residents in Largo.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 13 News
- WTSP
- ABC Action News
- Patch
- Google Search: Largo Florida double murder
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Family Violence
