Two months into residing in their ideal residence and cuddled up on the couch enjoying a TV show, Justin and Amber Hicks, along with their lovely two-year-old son Jacob, had a promising future ahead. Tragically, a regular Friday evening took a sinister turn when an intruder entered their home, resulting in the brutal murder of the couple. Fortunately, their young son was spared but left alone in the aftermath of the devastating incident.
The tragic event unfolded as the unsuspecting couple, Justin and Amber, were relaxing and watching television, unaware of the lurking danger outside their home. Little did they know that those moments would be their last together before they were tragically shot and killed, leaving their son behind. The accused perpetrator of this heinous crime is identified as Matthew Scott Lanz, the neighbor of the Hicks family.
Reportedly, the devastating incident occurred around 10 p.m., marking the beginning of the family’s worst nightmare. The intruder broke in through the back window, catching the Hicks off guard, rendering them defenseless and leading to their untimely demise. Shockingly, their young son witnessed the horrific events unfold before him, with even the family pet present in the house at the time.
According to the prosecution, evidence suggests that following the shooting, the toddler attempted to seek comfort from his deceased parents and even engaged in play activities near them. Toys belonging to Jacob were found in proximity to his father’s body, further highlighting the heartbreaking scene.
The accused, Lanz, faces charges related to the 2021 murders in Cherokee County, Georgia, including accusations of cruelty to children for the distress caused to the toddler during the 12 hours he was left unattended. Fortunately, when authorities located the child, he was physically unharmed.
Justin, a respected firefighter in Cherokee County, and Amber had recently found their dream home, as shared by friends mourning their untimely loss. The tragic incident led to the arrest of Lanz a few days later after he allegedly committed another break-in, resulting in a violent confrontation with law enforcement.
The trial against Lanz has faced delays due to questions regarding his mental competency, with conflicting reports on his ability to stand trial. Lanz’s defense claims that he believes he is being framed by government agencies, despite his previous arrest in connection with a break-in at the Hicks family’s home.
As the legal proceedings continue, the community remains shocked and saddened by the tragic events that unfolded in the Hicks family home.