NewsWPLG Local 10June 24, 2026United States
Michelle Zajko Charged in 2022 Murder of Parents
Delaware County prosecutors have charged Michelle Zajko with the 2022 murder of her parents, Rita and Richard Zajko, at their Pennsylvania home. Authorities allege Zajko, a member of a group known as the Zizians, orchestrated the killings and was present at the scene, though she denies the charges.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10Why It Matters
The charges represent a significant development in a multi-state investigation involving a group linked to six deaths across Pennsylvania, Vermont, and California.
Key Facts
- Michelle Zajko is charged with murder, burglary, and conspiracy in the deaths of her parents, Rita and Richard Zajko.
- The victims were killed on New Year’s Eve 2022 in their Chester Heights, Pennsylvania home.
- Prosecutors allege Zajko was present at the home and arranged the deaths, potentially with co-conspirators.
- Evidence cited includes doorbell camera footage, ballistics, and a list of 'mistakes' allegedly written by Zajko.
- Shell casings found at the crime scene were linked to ammunition from Zajko's home in Vermont and a backyard firing range.
- The Zizians group is linked to six deaths total, including incidents in California, Pennsylvania, and Vermont.
- Zajko is currently jailed in Maryland on separate charges, including providing the gun used to kill U.S. Border Patrol Agent David Maland.
- Zajko, Daniel Blank, and Jack LaSota were arrested in Maryland in February 2025 on charges of trespassing and illegal gun and drug possession.
- Jack LaSota faces a federal charge of illegal gun possession by a fugitive.
- Michelle Zajko has denied the allegations in an open letter, suggesting her father may have killed her mother and himself.
- A competency evaluation was recently ordered for Jack LaSota in federal court.
Who's Mentioned
personMichelle Zajko“Defendant charged with murder, burglary, and conspiracy in the deaths of her par”personRita Zajko“Victim; mother of Michelle Zajko.”personTeresa Youngblut“Defendant in a Vermont shooting case.”personDavid Maland“U.S. Border Patrol Agent killed in January 2025.”locationDelaware County“Jurisdiction where the murders occurred.”personDaniel Blank“Associate of Michelle Zajko arrested in Maryland.”personTanner Rouse“Delaware County District Attorney.”personRichard Zajko“Victim; father of Michelle Zajko.”personJack “Ziz” LaSota“Alleged leader of the Zizians group.”