Joseph Eaton, 35, pleaded guilty to murdering his parents and their friends before going on a random shooting spree on a Maine interstate. He received a life sentence for each murder and additional charges. Eaton initially entered an insanity plea but withdrew it, citing a history of childhood sexual abuse, mental health issues, and drug use. He confessed to killing his parents and their friends, as well as their dog. Eaton then fled to a highway where he fired at passing vehicles, injuring three people. Authorities believe the killings were motivated by a desire for a “new life.” Eaton had been released from prison shortly before the shootings, despite a prior criminal history and a prohibition on possessing firearms due to his convictions. Eaton’s parents had asked for him to be released to their custody for probation, but he was arrested in Florida for a violent incident and served time before being returned to Maine. Eaton expressed remorse in court, stating that he deserved a life sentence and worse. He acknowledged his actions and expressed regret for the harm he caused. Eaton received the maximum penalties for his crimes, including life sentences for each murder.
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