In brief
Lorenz Kraus, 53, admitted to killing his elderly parents, Franz and Theresia Kraus, in what he described as mercy killings. His confession and subsequent arrest followed a live interview where he revealed details about their deaths and the financial exploitation surrounding their Social Security benefits. Authorities are continuing to identify the remains found in the backyard while Kraus faces two counts of murder.
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — In a startling confession, Lorenz Kraus, 53, admitted to the murders of his parents, Franz and Theresia Kraus, eight years ago, during a live television interview. His shocking on-air admission led to his arrest moments after the interview concluded.
Kraus's confession came as part of an investigation prompted by suspicious financial transactions linked to his parents' Social Security benefits, which continued to be deposited despite their absence. He described the act as a form of mercy killing, indicating that he believed he was relieving his ailing parents of their suffering.
“They knew that this was it for them, that they were perishing at your hand?” news anchor Greg Floyd asked during the broadcast. Kraus responded affirmatively, claiming it was a swift decision made out of love.
Initially hesitant to directly state he had killed them, he ultimately conceded after further questioning, asserting, “I did my duty to my parents.” Following the interview, Kraus was arrested and charged with two counts of murder, with a not guilty plea entered on his behalf during a brief court hearing.
According to Stone Grissom, the news director of CBS6, Kraus reached out to the station through an emailed statement, which led to a hurried interview. Kraus's erratic responses and the demeanor during the interview raised questions regarding the media's role in his confession, as there was a police presence during the Q&A.
The investigation that revealed the bodies is ongoing, with authorities confirming they believe the remains belong to Kraus's parents. Identification is still pending as the probes into both the murders and the financial mismanagement continue.
