A Florida man has been accused of fatally shooting his girlfriend, young son, and family dog during what was supposed to be a family pool day at his mother’s home in Sarasota, according to police.
Family Pool Day Turned Deadly
Authorities said Nicholas Novickis, 34, allegedly carried out the shootings on May 23 at his mother’s home in Sarasota’s gated Artistry community.
Investigators said Novickis, his girlfriend Allie, and their son Phoenix had gone to the house to spend the day swimming in the pool.
According to police, there were no signs of an argument or disturbance before the shootings happened.
Son Shot Near Pool Area
Court documents state that surveillance video captured Novickis walking onto the pool patio carrying a pump-action shotgun.
Investigators said Novickis allegedly shot his son Phoenix in the head near the back lanai area of the home.
Police said Novickis’ mother was upstairs asleep when she heard gunshots and glass breaking. When she came downstairs, she reportedly witnessed part of the incident.
Girlfriend and Dog Also Killed
Authorities said Novickis later shot the family dog, described as a husky, before dropping the shotgun.
As his mother moved through the home, she allegedly discovered that Allie had also been shot and killed.
Police said Novickis’ mother managed to secure the weapon and escape the house unharmed while calling 911.
Police Say Motive Remains Unknown
Investigators said Novickis later expressed regret during an interview with police, calling the killings “f—ed up.”
However, authorities said they still do not know what motivated the shootings.
Officials also noted that Novickis had no significant criminal history before the incident.
Charges Filed Against Suspect
Novickis was arrested and booked on two counts of first-degree murder and one count of animal cruelty for the death of the dog.
He is scheduled to appear in court for a pretrial detention hearing on May 29.
