A 23-year-old man from Bartow, Florida, has been arrested after allegedly shooting his parents during a domestic dispute on Saturday night, resulting in the death of his father and critical injuries to his mother.
According to Fox 13 News, the tragic event stemmed from a household argument about his lack of employment, according to law enforcement.
Authorities responded to a call from Susan Voigt, 58, who reported that her son had shot her and her husband, 63-year-old Marvin Voigt, before fleeing in his vehicle. Marvin was found dead in the driveway from apparent gunshot wounds, while Susan, suffering from a serious gunshot wound to the head, was discovered inside the house.
She was rushed to the hospital in critical condition and is currently stable, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO).
Suspect arrested after fleeing to Orlando
After the shooting, law enforcement across Polk County and nearby regions were alerted to look out for Joseph Voigt’s vehicle.
According to Fox 13 News, his car was spotted around 2 am (local time) on International Drive in Orlando. The Orlando Police Department conducted a felony traffic stop and apprehended Voigt.
Upon questioning, Voigt confessed to the crime, stating that he shot his parents because his father had been pressuring him to “make something of himself” and stop spending all his time playing video games.
PCSO Sheriff Grady Judd commended the Bartow Police Department for their swift action, which led to Voigt’s arrest, saying, “My detectives will continue their thorough investigation to ensure Voigt faces the full consequences of his actions.”
Bartow Police Chief Stephen Walker expressed sorrow over the tragedy, describing the Voigts as “really good people.” He added, “It’s sad to see something like this happen. A wife has lost her husband and essentially her son as well.”
Voigt’s criminal history includes previous arrests for battery and discharging a weapon in a residential area.
According to The Independent, he had been released from jail just days before the incident following a battery charge.
The suspect appeared in court on Monday and is set to be transferred to Polk County Jail to face charges of murder and attempted murder.
