(DailyChive.com) – A tragic incident unfolded in Florida when a 23-year-old man, Joseph Voigt, allegedly shot his parents, killing his father and critically wounding his mother. Authorities say the conflict began after Voigt’s father criticized him for spending too much time on video games and failing to find a job.
The shooting occurred late Saturday night in Bartow. Police responded to a call from Susan Voigt, 58, who managed to report the crime despite suffering a gunshot wound to the head. When officers arrived, they found Marvin Voigt, 63, dead in the driveway with multiple gunshot wounds. Inside the house, Susan was found alive but seriously injured. She was rushed to the hospital and remains in critical condition.
“They found the mother sitting on the couch. She had been shot in the head but was still conscious,” Bartow Police Chief Stephen Walker said. He described the couple as “really good people” and expressed sorrow over the senseless nature of the crime.
After fleeing the scene, Joseph Voigt was spotted hours later driving in Orlando. The Orlando Police conducted a felony traffic stop early Sunday morning, arresting him without further incident. During questioning, Voigt reportedly confessed to shooting both his parents.
According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Voigt admitted the argument began because his father had been pressuring him to stop playing video games and focus on getting a job. Sheriff Grady Judd emphasized the senselessness of the tragedy. “It’s heartbreaking. This wasn’t over anything significant—just a foolish argument,” Judd said.
Joseph Voigt appeared in court on Monday and will be transported to Polk County, where he faces charges of murder and attempted murder. Records show Voigt has a history of run-ins with the law, including previous arrests for battery and discharging a weapon in a residential area. He had only recently been released from jail on December 1 after another battery charge.
“This tragedy could’ve been avoided,” Chief Walker stated. “It’s a devastating reminder of how quickly a conflict can escalate.” Law enforcement officials praised the rapid response that led to Voigt’s arrest, ensuring the public’s safety. The investigation remains ongoing.
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