A Utah double murder case is now moving closer to trial nearly three years after the shocking deaths of a husband and wife inside their family home. Prosecutors say the accused, their own son, will now face trial after a judge ruled there is enough evidence to move the case forward.
The disturbing investigation includes gunshot deaths, alleged attempts to clean the crime scene, stolen property, and a dramatic arrest across state lines.
Utah Man Faces Trial in Parents’ Double Murder Case
30-year-old Tryston Erickson is accused of killing his mother, 50-year-old Jeannie Parker, and his stepfather, 58-year-old Timothy Parker, inside their home in Spanish Fork.
The couple’s bodies were discovered on March 14, 2023, after coworkers reported that they had not shown up for work for several days, prompting police to conduct a welfare check.
When officers entered the home, they found both victims dead from gunshot wounds in a basement bedroom. Their bodies had reportedly been partially covered with blankets.
Crime Scene Revealed Disturbing Evidence
According to investigators, the home contained nearly two dozen firearms, spent bullet casings, bullet holes in the walls, and blood leading toward the basement.
Police also said there were signs someone had tried to clean the crime scene. Blood cleanup materials were reportedly found, along with clothing in the laundry that appeared to have blood on it.
During the investigation, detectives also found photos of the victims’ bodies on Erickson’s phone, allegedly taken days before police discovered the bodies.
Suspect Arrested After High-Speed Chase
Investigators learned that Erickson, who lived with the victims, was missing from the home. Also missing were Jeannie Parker’s car and mobile phone.
Police tracked the phone to Steamboat Springs and later located Erickson in Grand County. Authorities say he was arrested after leading officers on a high-speed chase while driving his mother’s vehicle.
During questioning, Erickson allegedly admitted taking the car and phone. When investigators asked why he fled, police say he responded that he knew he was going to jail and “thought he would have a little fun.”
Possible Motive Emerges
Investigators later spoke with coworkers of Timothy Parker, who reportedly told police that he had been trying to evict Erickson from the home shortly before his death. Prosecutors believe that may have played a role in the alleged killings.
Police also recovered firearms and bank cards belonging to other family members in Erickson’s possession.
Competency Battle Delayed Case
The case faced major delays after questions were raised about Erickson’s mental competency in early 2024. Following multiple hearings, the court officially ruled in December 2025 that Erickson was competent to stand trial.
After additional hearings in March and May, a judge determined there was enough evidence for the case to proceed.
Trial Moves Forward
Erickson faces two counts of aggravated murder along with several other charges, including obstruction of justice, theft, abuse of a human body, weapons violations, and financial card crimes.
He remains in custody and is scheduled to be arraigned on June 10.
