Ohio Man Arrested After Allegedly Stabbing His Father to Death—Tells Police “God Told Me to Do It”

MARYSVILLE, OH — April 22, 2025 — In a deeply disturbing and tragic incident, 27-year-old Micaih Swendler of Marysville is facing a murder charge after allegedly stabbing his father to death in their family home. The shocking nature of the case has rocked the quiet Ohio community, prompting discussions about mental health, familial violence, and spiritual delusion.

The incident unfolded over the weekend when Swendler himself placed a 911 call, calmly reporting the crime to authorities. When Marysville police officers arrived at the residence, located in a quiet suburban neighborhood, they found the home eerily still. Inside, they discovered the lifeless body of Swendler’s father, who had sustained fatal stab wounds. The exact time of the killing has not been released, but authorities confirmed that by the time they arrived, the victim had already passed away.

A Chilling Confession

According to the initial police report and statements made by officers on the scene, Swendler immediately confessed to the killing. His words were haunting: “God told me to kill him.” Authorities described his demeanor as calm and compliant; he did not attempt to flee and reportedly surrendered without any resistance.

The Marysville Police Department has not released the name of the victim, pending further family notifications, though it has been confirmed that he was the father of the accused. Investigators have not yet detailed any prior incidents of domestic violence or mental health issues related to the suspect, though they are actively reviewing family history and medical records as part of their ongoing investigation.

Legal Proceedings Underway

Swendler was taken into custody without incident and booked into the Union County Jail. During his first court appearance, a judge ordered him held on a $1 million bond. He is scheduled to appear again in court on May 1, 2025, where further details of the case may emerge and a plea may be entered.

Prosecutors have yet to confirm whether they will pursue additional charges beyond murder or seek a mental competency evaluation. Given the statement referencing divine instruction, legal experts suggest that a psychiatric assessment will likely be central to Swendler’s defense and the court’s evaluation of his culpability.

Community Reaction

Neighbors and local residents expressed deep sorrow and disbelief following the incident. Many described the family as quiet and largely private, with no visible signs of dysfunction.

“It’s just horrifying,” said one neighbor, who asked not to be named. “You hear something like that, and you wonder what could’ve gone so wrong. I can’t imagine what that family is going through.”

Social media has also been filled with messages of condolence for the surviving family members, who are now grappling with an unimaginable tragedy.

Broader Implications

This incident adds to a growing number of domestic homicides where mental illness or religious delusion appears to play a role. Mental health advocates are urging the public and policymakers to consider how untreated psychiatric conditions—especially those involving psychosis or delusions—can have deadly consequences if left unchecked.

“This case is a devastating example of what can happen when someone experiences a break from reality,” said Dr. Alan Proser, a forensic psychiatrist. “Statements like ‘God told me to do it’ often suggest severe psychiatric illness, and it will be essential to evaluate whether the suspect was capable of understanding the nature and wrongfulness of his actions.”

What’s Next

As the community mourns and investigators piece together the timeline leading up to the fatal stabbing, the focus turns to the legal process and the mental state of the accused. Authorities have asked anyone with information about the suspect’s behavior or potential warning signs leading up to the killing to come forward.

The Marysville Police Department continues to coordinate with Union County prosecutors as they prepare for the upcoming court hearing.

This is a developing story. More updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

Our deepest sympathies go out to the victim’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.