> At a Glance
> – A court-ordered security hold now blocks release of all medical examiner records on Rob and Michele Reiner.
> – Both victims died from multiple sharp-force injuries inflicted with a knife, classed as homicide.
> – Their 32-year-old son Nick Reiner, diagnosed with schizophrenia, faces two murder counts and a special-circumstance allegation.
> – Why it matters: The sealing order delays public details while detectives from Robbery-Homicide Division finish their investigation.
Los Angeles County officials confirmed that the LAPD has persuaded a judge to bar release of any additional records tied to the Dec. 14 killings of film-maker Rob Reiner, 78, and photographer-producer Michele Singer Reiner, 70, in their Brentwood home.
What the Hold Covers
The medical examiner’s office told News Of Los Angeles the hold freezes:
- Autopsy reports beyond the already-public cause-of-death summary
- Toxicology findings
- Scene photographs
- Any supplementary forensic notes
A spokesperson said the department will “make information available once the court order is lifted.”
Already Known Facts
- Cause of death: Multiple sharp-force injuries delivered with a knife
- Manner: Homicide (ruled immediately)
- Suspect: Nick Reiner, the couple’s middle child, arrested the same day
- Charges: Two counts of murder plus multiple-murder special circumstances and a knife-use enhancement
If prosecutors pursue capital punishment, the special-circumstance allegation opens the door to a possible death sentence.
Mental Health Factor
A previously sealed medical order shows Nick Reiner:
- Has schizophrenia diagnosed years ago
- Was on medication adjusted shortly before the killings
- Is receiving psychiatric treatment while jailed
His next court date is Jan. 7 arraignment.
Community Reaction
Fans keep leaving flowers outside the Reiner residence. Industry colleagues and politicians have posted tributes to the director of “When Harry Met Sally…,” “A Few Good Men” and “This Is Spinal Tap” and to his wife, whose photography graced major galleries.
Key Takeaways
- LAPD secured the sealing order to ensure detectives control critical investigative details before media exposure.
- Basic facts-homicide by stabbing-remain public; deeper forensic data is now restricted.
- Nick Reiner’s mental-health history and recent medication change could lengthen upcoming legal proceedings.
The move keeps sensitive evidence under wraps while the Robbery-Homicide Division builds its case.
