Delray Beach, FL — A Florida man who described himself online as a life coach and “intuitive healer” is accused of repeatedly stabbing his 77-year-old mother to death at their home, just hours after posting a video about the importance of forgiveness, according to police.
Alexander Harrington, 50, is charged with first-degree murder in the death of his mother, identified by local CBS affiliate WPEC as Susan Baratto.
Harrington reportedly called police around 2 p.m. Friday and told authorities that he had killed his mother, according to a probable cause arrest affidavit reviewed by Law&Crime.
When Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived at the residence, they found Harrington standing outside the home.
Deputies then entered the residence and discovered Baratto in the living room. She was covered in blood and suffering from multiple stab wounds, authorities said. A knife was found on the ground next to her.
Baratto was pronounced dead at the scene.
Suspect allegedly tells paramedics what happened
Harrington also had a laceration on his left arm when authorities arrived. While paramedics treated him, they asked him what had happened.
According to the affidavit, Harrington allegedly responded: “I killed my mom.”
Detectives later took him in for questioning. After receiving his Miranda rights, Harrington allegedly admitted to stabbing his mother and calling police to report the killing.
However, investigators have not publicly provided a clear explanation for what allegedly led to the deadly encounter.
The probable cause affidavit did not detail a motive or describe what happened immediately before the stabbing.
According to the affidavit, Harrington told authorities that he had been sober since 2007 and had been diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder and bipolar disorder.
Chilling video focused on forgiveness
What makes the case particularly striking is what Harrington allegedly shared online shortly before his mother’s death.
On his Facebook page, Harrington described himself as a life coach and “intuitive healer.” In a video posted the day before the fatal stabbing, he spoke at length about forgiveness and healing.
Harrington also referred to himself as “one of Christ’s white knights” during the video.
He encouraged viewers to forgive people who had hurt them in the past, saying that failing to heal could cause people to repeat the same mistakes.
He also described writing down the names of people who had hurt him and forgiving them all. The post has drawn attention because of its stark contrast with the allegations that followed.
Harrington remains jailed without bond
The investigation into Baratto’s death remains ongoing as Harrington faces a first-degree murder charge.
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Authorities have not publicly established a motive for the alleged killing, and the available affidavit does not provide further details about the circumstances that preceded the stabbing.
Harrington remains in the Palm Beach County Jail without bond. His next court appearance is scheduled for Nov. 5, according to the information provided by authorities.
The case is now moving through the court system, where prosecutors will have to prove the allegations against Harrington beyond a reasonable doubt.
For the family and community, the case has left a disturbing question at its center: what happened inside the Delray Beach home before the 77-year-old woman was fatally stabbed?
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