Reginald Maclaren : “Family Dismemberment Killer Sentenced”

Reginald Maclaren (Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Office), Bethany Maclaren and Ruth Jennifer Maclaren (KUSA screenshot)

An 83-Year-Old Man in Colorado Sentenced to Life in Prison for Gruesome Ax Murders of Wife and Daughter

An 83-year-old man in Colorado, Reginald Maclaren, has been sentenced to spend the rest of his days behind bars for the horrific killings and dismemberment of his wife and daughter with an ax. This tragic incident took place last year, and Maclaren showed no remorse, stating that he believed his family was in a better place after the massacre.

Life Sentences Without Parole

District Judge Michelle Amico handed down the verdict on Wednesday, ordering Maclaren to serve two life sentences in a state correctional facility without the possibility of parole for the brutal slayings of his wife, 70-year-old Bethany Maclaren, and his 35-year-old daughter Ruth Jennifer Maclaren. In addition to the murder charges, Maclaren was also found guilty of tampering with the deceased bodies and providing false information to authorities.

Judge’s Ruling

Under Colorado state law, first-degree murder convictions carry a mandatory sentence of life without parole. Judge Amico ordered that Maclaren serve the life sentences consecutively, emphasizing the value of the victims’ lives and the severity of the crimes committed. The defense’s request for concurrent sentences was denied.

Victim Impact

Bethany Maclaren’s niece delivered a poignant victim impact statement in court, expressing the deep loss and pain caused by Maclaren’s actions. The family remains devastated by the senseless tragedy and mourns the loving and caring aunt and sister they have lost.

Gruesome Crime Scene

Following Maclaren’s arrest, law enforcement officials described the crime scene inside the Maclaren residence as one of the most gruesome they had ever encountered. The victims were found dismembered and placed in trash cans, with evidence of extensive injuries and blood throughout the apartment.

Confession and Motive

Maclaren confessed to the murders, revealing that financial struggles and fear of homelessness drove him to commit the heinous act. He purchased tools, including an ax and a saw, with the intention of carrying out the killings. Despite his admission, Maclaren claimed he did not regret his actions, believing that his family was now in a better place.

Legal Proceedings

Maclaren is scheduled to appear in court for a restitution hearing on August 13th. The court will address the financial implications of his crimes and the impact on the victims’ surviving family members.

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