MERRILLVILLE, Ind. – A tragic domestic incident in Merrillville left a man dead and his wife seriously injured when his son allegedly attacked them Sunday morning. Jason Whitaker, 34, has been arrested and charged with multiple counts of murder, attempted murder, aggravated battery and domestic battery in connection with the brutal attack.
At approximately 2 a.m., police were called to 911 dispatch in the 7400 block of Hendricks Street. The call was from a woman who reported that both she and her husband were being stabbed inside their home. When officers arrived, they found Jason Whitaker walking out of the home with his hands raised and took him into custody without incident.
Upon clearing the residence, officers discovered that 74-year-old Orel Whitaker had died from multiple stab wounds. His wife was found in critical condition, but was stabilized at the scene and taken to Franciscan Health in Crown Point for treatment.
According to court documents, the attack stemmed from an argument between Jason Whittaker and his mother over repeatedly turning off the furnace. The dispute escalated when Jason allegedly attacked his mother with a cast iron pan before stabbing her. When Orrel Whitaker intervened to protect his wife, he was also stabbed and later found dead in the basement.
Jason Whitaker, who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia, is currently being held without bail. He remains in custody while authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The case has highlighted the ongoing issue of domestic violence, and the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) is available for those who need assistance.