Authorities charged Craig Joseph Cymes, 46, with two counts of first-degree murder and arson Saturday in Friday's early morning fire that killed his father, Marion Cymes, 80, and mother, Mayetta, 76. An autopsy determined both died of soot and smoke inhalation.
``It's a double homicide, and we are still working to establish a motive,'' Farmington Hills Police Chief William Dwyer told The Detroit News for a Sunday story. ``We are saddened by this senseless loss of life and pain and suffering felt by the family, friends and neighbors.''
A neighbor called 911 to report the fire when she heard screaming and saw smoke and flames coming out the front door.
Craig Cymes was standing outside in a T-shirt, shorts and socks, but without shoes or a jacket, Dwyer said. He complained of trouble breathing, and his blood alcohol level was determined to have been .20, more than twice the legal driving limit, police said.
Dwyer said Cymes admitted pouring gasoline on the living room floor and igniting it with a cigarette lighter.
Firefighters found Cymes' father in bed and his mother on a couch in the living room.
Dwyer said Cymes moved in with his parents about three years ago and has been their primary caregiver, handling meal preparation, house cleaning, dressing and bathing.
He was arraigned Saturday and held in the Oakland County Jail without bond.
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