Son Pleads Not Guilty To Killing Dad After Fight Over Job

HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL — A Hoffman Estates man accused of fatally shooting his father earlier this year after the two argued over the son's lack of employment pleaded not guilty in the case Tuesday, according to the Chicago Tribune. Alex Tarasiuk, 22, was charged with six counts of first-degree murder stemming from the death of Walter Tarasiuk, 57, the report added.

According to prosecutors, the two men — who lived together in the 900 block of Ash Road — had been fighting the morning of Jan. 1o over the younger Tarasiuk not having a job. The son finally became upset at the criticism when his dad called him worthless.

Father and son went to their own bedrooms, and Walter Tarasiuk started playing an online video game, an activity that led him to yell at the other players, the Tribune reported at the time of the shooting. But Alex Tarasiuk claimed he thought the threats were directed at him, not the online game, the report added.

RELATED: Son Accused Of Fatally Shooting Dad In Hoffman Estates Home: Cops

Taking his dad's loaded gun from the garage, Alex Tarasiuk allegedly shot his father in the head. He then called police to report the shooting. Tarasiuk was ordered held without bail by a Cook County judge, who said he was a danger to the public.

A Conant High School graduate, Alec Tarasiuk had lived with his mother in Arlington Heights before moving in with his father, the Daily Herald reported in January. Neighbors told WGN News at the time of the shooting that the Tarasiuks had been close, and Walter Tarasiuk was known as neighborhood handyman and had a reputation as being friendly with other residents, according to the Herald.

RELATED: Son Kills Dad Over Misheard Video Game Threats: Prosecutors

Alec Tarasiuk is scheduled to appear in court again April 3.

More via the Chicago Tribune

Alec Tarasiuk, 22 (Photo via Cook County Sheriff's Office)