Woman Allegedly Admits Murdering Son on Day Before His Birthday Because He Didn't Want to Turn 18: Police

Mar. 15, 2025

Katie Lee.Photo:Holland Department of Public Safety

Holland Department of Public Safety

Katie Lee is charged with open murder and resisting and obstructing an officer, according to online court records.

The Holland, Mich., Department of Public Safety says in a news release that police responded to Lee’s home early on the morning of Feb. 21, because of a report of a domestic incident. When they arrived, police say Lee, 39, was holding a knife. She was apprehended after police deployed a Taser.

Inside the apartment, police found the body of Lee’s son, Austin Dean Pikaart, 17.

Austin eventually passed out and Lee allegedly used the knife to to cut his throat and arm, the outlet reported, citing the document.

Lee allegedly told police that she wanted police to kill her so she could be with her son, WOOD reported.

WOOD reported that a detective testified at Lee’s court appearance on Feb. 24.

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“She advised her son asked her to help him stop breathing because he did not want to turn 18,” a detective reportedly told a judge.

Lee pleaded not guilty and her bond was denied. She is due back in court on March 4, according to online records.

“Austin was an exceedingly interesting character who had a love for cats, science, books, fishing with his dad, rollercoasters and video games,” his onlineobituaryread. “Austin had a patient, gentle, kind hearted soul as well as a great love for helping others.”

source: people.com