A Michigan mother has been charged with the murder of her teenage son just a day before his 18th birthday. Authorities reported that the mother, Katie Lee, claimed her son wanted to end his own life.

Lee, 39, is charged with open murder and resisting arrest,according to court records. The Holland, Michigan, Department of Public Safety said officers were called to her apartment on February 21 on a report of a domestic disturbance. When they arrived, they encountered Lee with a knife. She was subdued with a Taser and arrested. Police found the body of her 17-year-old son, Austin Dean Pikaart, inside the apartment.

Reports from WZZM and WOOD indicate that Lee called 911 that morning and told dispatchers she had been "trying for a while" to stop Austin from breathing but had been unsuccessful.

Lee is said to have claimed that she and her son had tried to overdose on drugs together. After Austin lost consciousness, she used a knife to slash his throat and arm, according to reports. Lee reportedly informed police that she wanted the officers to kill her so she could join her son, according to WOOD.

During a court hearing on February 24, a detective testified that Lee stated Austin had asked for her help because he "did not want to turn 18."

Lee entered a plea of not guilty, and her bond was rejected. She is to appear in court again on March 4, according to online reports.

Austin's virtual obituary presented him as a curious and friendly young man. It labeled him as "an exceedingly interesting character who had a love for cats, science, books, fishing with his dad, roller coasters, and video games." The tribute also remembered him as "a patient, gentle, kind-hearted soul with a deep love for helping others."

You might also be interested in -Top 10 richest nations by GDP per capita in 2025: Is India on the list?