Michigan Nanny Accused in Fatal Attack

On October 24, 2025, in Royal Oak, Michigan, Samantha Booth, a 35-year-old nanny, was charged in the death of 83-year-old David Ong. The incident occurred during a welfare check at a family home and reportedly involved Booth chasing other family members, including a two-year-old, before her apprehension by police.

Story Highlights

Samantha Booth, a nanny, was charged with the death of David Ong, 83, during a welfare check in Royal Oak, Michigan.
The incident reportedly escalated to include a chase and attempted assault on additional family members, including a toddler.
Authorities found suspected psychedelic drugs and marijuana in Booth’s possession.
Booth faces charges of first-degree murder, child abuse, assault, and resisting arrest.

Incident Details

The event unfolded when David Ong arrived at the Royal Oak residence to check on his granddaughter. According to reports, Booth allegedly used a screwdriver to fatally stab Ong. Following this, Booth reportedly pursued the child’s uncle and the two-year-old outside the home, attempting further assaults before law enforcement intervened and apprehended her.

During the arrest, Booth reportedly exhibited erratic behavior and attempted to flee. Authorities discovered suspected psychedelic mushrooms and marijuana in her possession. Booth had been employed by the family for two years and reportedly had no prior criminal record.

🚨 PURE HORROR: 83-year-old David Ong went to check on his 2-year-old granddaughter at home in Royal Oak… only for the family’s nanny, 35-year-old Samantha Booth, to allegedly stab him to death with a screwdriver — then attack the toddler. Police say she stripped naked and ran… pic.twitter.com/e3Ytg67mq5

— Nightcap Crimes (@NightcapCrimes) October 29, 2025

Community and Legal Response

Prosecutor Karen McDonald has condemned the violence and acknowledged the uncle’s actions during the incident. The case has prompted discussions within the community regarding caregiver vetting, background checks, and substance abuse screening for individuals working in childcare roles.

Samantha Booth has been arraigned on charges including first-degree murder, child abuse, assault, and resisting arrest. She has been denied bond and remains in custody pending further legal proceedings. The case continues to develop as the investigation progresses.

Watch the report: Royal Oak grandfather stabbed to death while protecting granddaughter, police say