Nanny Arrested for Murder: Disturbing Case Unfolds in Michigan

A Michigan nanny, identified as Samantha Booth, has been arrested and charged with the murder of David Ong, the grandfather of the child she was caring for. This shocking incident took place on the evening of October 24, 2025, in Royal Oak, a suburb of Detroit. Booth is accused of stabbing Ong, 83, with a screwdriver, leading to a tragic sequence of events that has left many questioning how such violence could emerge from someone entrusted with a child’s care.

Booth, 35, had been employed by the Ong family as a nanny for approximately two years. Friends and family describe her as a caring and gentle person, with her brother, Danny Booth, stating she was “a bright light” in their lives. Her recent connection with Brian Rothstein, who lives over 2,300 miles away in Bend, Oregon, seemed promising, with plans for a new life together. Rothstein expressed disbelief over the incident, reflecting on their conversations leading up to the tragedy, noting that Booth had been “destabilized” and sleep-deprived but never exhibiting violent behavior.

On the day of the incident, Ong had gone to check on his granddaughter after her mother, Katie Ong, could not reach Booth. Rothstein had spoken to Booth just prior to Ong’s visit, indicating that she was expecting him. According to police, Ong was found dead in the basement, and Booth was discovered “in a manic state” nearby, covered in blood. Reports suggest that Booth attempted to attack Ong’s brother-in-law, who had come to investigate the situation, before fleeing the scene.

Authorities responded to the scene after receiving a 911 call. Officers found Booth completely unclothed and exhibiting erratic behavior. She allegedly confessed to the stabbing, stating, “I f***** him the f*** up, and yes, I did it.” Ong was pronounced dead at the scene, having suffered multiple stab wounds.

The Oakland County Prosecutor, Karen McDonald, announced that Booth would face charges including first-degree murder, second-degree child abuse, and resisting arrest. If convicted, she could face life in prison without the possibility of parole. The case has raised concerns about the mental health of caregivers, as police indicated that drug use might be a factor. They reportedly discovered what they believe to be psychedelic mushrooms and cannabis in Booth’s possession, substances known to induce hallucinations and erratic behavior.

Booth’s online presence paints a complex picture. Identifying as a “neurodivergent millennial lightworker,” she had shared insights into her struggles with mental health on social media. Friends noted a marked deterioration in her mental state following a difficult breakup, which she described as abusive. Recent posts revealed her financial hardships and feelings of anger and isolation, suggesting a troubling emotional landscape leading up to the incident.

The case draws parallels to other high-profile incidents involving caregivers, highlighting a disturbing trend in which those entrusted with children’s safety can turn violent. Notably, the 2012 case of Yoselyn Ortega, who fatally stabbed two children in New York City, and the 1997 case of Louise Woodward, who was accused of killing an infant in her care, both shocked the nation and raised questions about the vetting processes for nannies and au pairs.

As investigations continue, many are left questioning the safeguards in place for families hiring caregivers. Critics argue that the lack of regulation in the nanny industry places children at risk, often relying on informal recommendations without thorough background checks. The Ong family, like many others, may have unknowingly hired someone with undisclosed struggles, underscoring the urgent need for better oversight in childcare arrangements.

The tragic outcome of this incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can arise in what are often considered safe environments. As the legal proceedings unfold, the community grapples with the aftermath of a crime that has shattered lives and raised pressing questions about trust and safety in childcare.