Florida Teen Charged with Murdering Mother, 19 Months After Father's Death

Authorities allege the 17-year-old stabbed his mother after a history of violent incidents, following a previous fatal shooting of his father ruled as self-defense.

Collin Griffith, 17, has been charged with first-degree murder for the fatal stabbing of his mother, Catherine Griffith, in Auburndale, Florida.
Griffith previously killed his father, Charles Griffith, in Oklahoma in February 2023, claiming self-defense; no charges were filed in that case.
Witnesses reported seeing Griffith drag his mother into a house by her hair before the stabbing, contradicting his claim that she fell on the knife during a fight.
Authorities revealed a history of violent behavior by Griffith, including threats and physical confrontations with his mother over the past year.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd is advocating for Griffith to be tried as an adult, citing concerns about his erratic behavior and potential for future violence.