A shocking and deeply disturbing incident has shaken a neighbourhood in Federal Way, Washington. A 35-year-old man has been arrested after being accused of killing both his parents inside their own home. The case has left the community stunned and raised serious concerns about long-term domestic violence that may have been ignored for years.
Man arrested for parents’ murder in Federal Way
Mick Carmichael, aged 35, has been taken into custody and is currently held at the King County jail. He faces two counts of second-degree murder in connection with the deaths of his parents, Grace Carmichael (69) and Gregory Carmichael (68).
The incident reportedly happened at their home on the 33700 block of 27th Place Southwest in Federal Way, a city located just south of Seattle.
According to investigators, all three family members were inside the house sometime between Wednesday and Thursday when an argument broke out. Police believe the situation escalated into violence, and the suspect allegedly strangled both parents using a belt. Reports also mention that he suffered some injuries during the struggle.
Concern raised after mother missed work
The case came to light when Grace Carmichael did not arrive at her workplace on Thursday morning. Worried about her absence, a co-worker contacted Federal Way police and requested a welfare check. Officers visited the house, knocked on the door, and looked through the windows but did not notice anything suspicious at that time.
Since there was no response, police contacted another family member and asked them to check on the couple. This decision turned out to be crucial in uncovering the tragic truth.
Family member’s discovery led to police action
When the relative arrived at the house, they reportedly saw Mick Carmichael walking away from the property. When asked about his parents, he allegedly said they were still sleeping and that he did not want them to be disturbed. However, when the family member entered the home, they found the bodies of Grace and Gregory Carmichael. The suspect had already left the scene.
Police quickly issued an alert asking the public to report any sightings of Mick Carmichael.
Suspect found with injuries and blood stains
Later that same day, around 5 p.m., an officer spotted Carmichael in a nearby park. According to reports, he appeared to have dried blood on his hands, blood stains on his clothing, and visible cuts and bruises on his body. He was arrested at the scene.
During questioning, the suspect reportedly denied speaking with his parents the day before and claimed he did not know how he got his injuries. Police have said that the investigation is ongoing.
History of violence within the family
What makes this case even more heartbreaking is the long history of alleged violence involving the same suspect. Court records reviewed by local media show that Carmichael had previous run-ins with the law related to his parents.
Some key points from past incidents include:
- In 2021, he allegedly slammed his mother’s head into a staircase.
- He reportedly strangled his father during a separate argument, calling him “the devil.”
- In 2015, he was charged in another case involving an attack on his father.
- Since 2009, at least 10 protection orders were issued to protect his parents and five other individuals from him, across four different cases.
These details suggest that the family had been living under fear and tension for many years.
Community left in shock
Residents in Federal Way have expressed sadness and disbelief over the incident. Many are now questioning whether more could have been done earlier to protect the victims, especially given the number of protection orders and past complaints.
This case has once again highlighted the serious issue of domestic violence and the importance of timely intervention, mental health support, and stronger follow-up when repeated warning signs are present.
