A 33-year-old man from Pennsylvania, Justin Mohn, is facing trial for allegedly beheading his father and posting images of the crime online.
The incident occurred on January 30, 2024, when Justin Mohn reportedly shot his father, Michael Mohn, 68, and then beheaded him.
He later posted a 14-minute anti-government rant on YouTube, holding up his father’s severed head and accusing him of being a “traitor to his country.”
What Happened During the Crime?
Michael Mohn was a semi-retired federal employee working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Justin Mohn claimed that his father resisted a “citizen’s arrest”, leading to the murder. After the killing, Justin shared the disturbing images on social media, sparking outrage.
Mother’s Testimony:
Nearly a year and a half later, Justin’s mother, Denice Mohn, took the stand in court. She described the traumatic moment when she found her husband’s headless body in the bathroom of their home. Denice reported, “I believe I screamed” and immediately called 911.
Denice testified that after Justin moved back to their home from Colorado, she noticed a shift in his behavior. She believed he had suffered an emotional breakdown, which was made worse by a lack of employment.
She also mentioned that Justin had been sending “nasty things” in texts and blamed the federal government for his troubles.
Despite the change in his personality, Denice and her husband tried to support him. They provided essentials like clothing, haircuts, and helped him with his job search and mental health treatment.
The Red Flag
Denice Mohn revealed in court that she had no idea her son held anti-government views until Bensalem police arrived at their home.
The officers warned her that Justin’s social media posts were a red flag, and they advised her to ask him to stop or face arrest. This warning was the first sign of the danger that might be coming.
The Day Before the Murder
On the day before the murder, Justin had lunch with his parents, and his mother was optimistic about his job interview. Justin asked to borrow his father’s car to attend the interview. However, he used it to buy the gun he would later use to kill his father.
The Trial
Justin Mohn is facing charges of first- and second-degree murder, as well as other felonies related to the crime. The trial continues as investigators seek justice for Michael Mohn and his family.
