Father accused of multiple murders

last updated 8 January 2015

Fresno, Calif.

A suspected polygamist was accused this week of killing nine of his children and grandchildren after an apparent custody dispute. Two women told police they had gone to the Fresno home of Marcus Wesson, 57, to demand that he turn over their children. Wesson shut himself and the victims inside, surrendering after a brief standoff. Inside, police found nine bloody bodies, and 10 coffins. All of the victims had been shot, and seven were under age 8. Neighbors said Wesson ran his home like a “small commune,” lording over four women and a dozen children like a cult leader. Police suspect Wesson of fathering two of the youngest victims in an incestuous relationship with one of his own daughters.