He wanted to throw a party. His parents said no. Hours later, he was inviting guests into the house where their bodies were hidden just feet away.
The Murders
On July 16, 2011, in Port St. Lucie, Florida, 17-year-old Tyler Hadley killed both of his parents, Blake and Mary-Jo Hadley, at their home after they refused to let him host a party — a decision complicated by Hadley's ongoing struggles with drug use and mental health issues that had increasingly worried his family. He attacked and killed his mother first, then his father when he came to investigate the disturbance. He then concealed their bodies in their bedroom and spent roughly three hours cleaning the scene.
The Party
Hadley invited guests to the house for a party that same night, none of whom were aware his parents' bodies were concealed nearby. Over the following hours, under the influence of drugs, Hadley began telling people at the party what he had done.
The Arrest
Someone who learned what Hadley had told partygoers alerted police. When officers arrived the following evening, they found Blake and Mary-Jo Hadley's bodies in the bedroom; Hadley reportedly pleaded with them not to enter the room.
Sentencing
Because of his age, Hadley was not eligible for the death penalty and was initially sentenced to life in prison. He was later granted a re-sentencing hearing, at which he again received a life sentence, but this time with the possibility of parole, with his case set for review after 25 years.
FAQ
How old was Tyler Hadley when he killed his parents?
He was 17 years old.
Why did he kill them?
His parents had refused to let him host a party at their home, a decision connected to ongoing concerns about his drug use and mental health.
What sentence did Hadley receive?
He was resentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 25 years.