HOLLAND, MI — A Holland woman has been charged with the murder of her 17-year-old son following a tragic incident that occurred early Friday morning. Katie Austin Lee, 38, is facing charges after police discovered her son, Austin Pikaart, deceased in their shared apartment at Bay Pointe Apartments on East 16th Street.
The incident came to light after Lee made a calm and disturbing 911 call at approximately 4:15 a.m. on Friday, during which she informed dispatchers that her son “won’t stop breathing.” In the recording obtained by News 8 through a public records request, Lee explains that she and her son had tried to take their own lives the day before by overdosing on pills, but the attempt had failed. “We don’t want to be here anymore. We’re done,” Lee told the dispatcher.
The dispatcher, responding to the gravity of the situation, sent officers to the apartment immediately. When authorities arrived, they found Pikaart dead, though the exact cause of death has not yet been publicly confirmed.
In the 911 call, Lee’s tone was notably calm, even as she described the harrowing details of her and her son’s failed suicide attempt. She explained that they had taken “a lot” of pills the previous day, though she did not elaborate on any specific reasons behind their apparent distress.
Mental health experts stress the importance of timely intervention in situations where individuals express suicidal thoughts. This case highlights the desperate need for accessible mental health resources and support systems, especially for individuals in crisis.
Lee has been charged with second-degree murder and felony murder in connection with her son’s death. Authorities have not released further details about the ongoing investigation. The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the case, and additional information is expected to be made available in the coming days.
This incident has shocked the local community, leaving neighbors and friends struggling to comprehend the tragic loss. Local organizations have called for increased awareness around mental health issues and have emphasized the importance of seeking help before situations escalate to such devastating outcomes.
