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

A Michigan mother is accused of murdering her son a day before his 18th birthday, allegedly telling police he wanted to die by suicide.

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.

A complaint obtained by WZZM and WOOD alleges that Lee called 911 that morning and told the dispatcher that she couldn’t get Austin to stop breathing after “trying for a while.”

According to WZZM’s report, police allege that Lee told a dispatcher that she and her son had attempted suicide together by taking an overdose of medication.

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 online obituary read. “Austin had a patient, gentle, kind hearted soul as well as a great love for helping others.”