Suspect In Fresno Slayings Waives Right To Arraignment

Arraignment Pending For Man Suspected Of Killing 9 Family Members

Associated Press/March 17, 2004

Fresno, Calif. -- The man charged in a shocking mass murder in Fresno made his first court appearance Wednesday and waived his right to an arraignment.

Marcus Wesson, 57, is charged with killing nine of his family members -- a 25-year-old woman and eight children, ages 1 to 17.

In a bizarre scene, a man in the room blurted out "I love you dad" several times.

Investigators have not disclosed a motive for the killings but say Wesson may have engaged in incest and polygamy.

Police believe Wesson fathered children with six women, including two of his own daughters.

If convicted, Wesson could be sentenced to death.