A tragic incident unfolded in Bartow, Florida, when a 23-year-old man, Joseph Voigt, allegedly shot his parents following an argument about his excessive video game playing and lack of employment.
The altercation resulted in the death of his father, Marvin Voigt, aged 63, and left his mother, Susan Voigt, aged 58, critically injured with a gunshot wound to the head.
The Bartow Police Department responded to the distress call made by Susan Voigt around 11:20 p.m. on Saturday. Upon arrival, they discovered Marvin Voigt deceased in the driveway from gunshot wounds and Susan Voigt inside the residence, gravely wounded.
Police Chief Stephen Walker expressed shock at the incident, stating, 'Everything we've heard about this couple was that they were really good people. And it's sad, you know, to see something like this happen.'
Joseph Voigt fled the scene but was later apprehended by Orlando Police after his vehicle was located in Orlando. He confessed to the crime, revealing that his father's disapproval of his gaming habits and lack of employment had triggered the violent outburst.
Voigt, who has a history of prior arrests, including charges of firing a weapon in a residential area and battery, appeared in court on Monday. He faces charges of murder and attempted murder and will be transferred to Polk County for further legal proceedings.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd commended the swift action of law enforcement in capturing Voigt, emphasizing the commitment to ensuring justice for the victims. 'Thanks to the rapid response of the Bartow Police Department, this violent and dangerous suspect was quickly apprehended,' Sheriff Judd stated.
Walker echoed the sentiment of sorrow and disbelief, remarking, 'We are deeply saddened by this tragic and senseless shooting.' The community remains in shock over the devastating turn of events that claimed one life and left another hanging in the balance.
