A married couple from Highland Park who was stabbed to death, allegedly by their son, is being remembered for being “such loving and caring parents and grandparents.”
An autopsy showed Ronald Goldberg, 79, and Renee Goldberg, 74, both of Highland Park, died as a result of multiple sharp force injuries, according to Lake County Chief Deputy Coroner Steve Newton.
The couple’s son, Barry M. Goldberg, 45, of the 1800 block of Green Bay Road in Highland Park, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder.
Lake County Assistant State’s Attorney Lillian Lewis said Thursday that officers received 911 calls for yelling and threats being made at an apartment.
Emergency personnel arrived around 10:15 a.m. Wednesday and noticed blood under the door of the apartment at 1850 Green Bay Road, Highland Park Communications Manager Amanda Civitello said.
Officers knocked on the door and heard someone yell “don’t shoot,” Lewis said during a bond hearing.
Officers forced entry and found Ronald Goldberg and Renee Goldberg lying in a pool of blood with a large knife next to them.
Barry Goldberg, who was near the door of the apartment, was taken into custody by officers.
Barry Goldberg was reportedly covered in blood and blood was also found splattered on the walls near the victims, Lewis said.
Officers learned the victims were Barry Goldberg’s parents. The man admitted to killing his mother, Lewis said.
Autopsies were performed Thursday morning on the couple.
Court records show the three Goldbergs resided at the apartment building where the murders happened.
Records also show the apartment complex filed an eviction in Lake County Circuit Court against them in July.
One of the couple’s sons, Neil Goldberg, said in a statement that his brother struggled with mental illness over the past four years.
“He was living with my parents, who invested all their time, energy, and resources in attempting to get him the proper help. Tragically, they were never successful in finding the help he needed,” Neil Goldberg said.
He said that funeral arrangements are still being worked out but a funeral service will likely be held on Friday.
“Thank you for the outpouring of support from all our friends, family, and the community. All the texts, calls, and IMs letting us know we are in your thoughts or prayers means so much to my family,” Neil Goldberg said in the statement.
Joshua Black, a family friend, said everyone was “stunned and saddened” by what happened.
“But, if you had the privilege of meeting Ron and Renée, you can’t forget their kindness, infectious smiles, love of family and their unwavering support of those they loved,” Black said.
“Ron and Renée’s kindness lives on with Neil and his family. They are woven into the fabric of the community, bringing joy through their bakery and smiles at farmers’ markets, community events, school fundraisers and more,” Black added.
A memorial fundraiser was created to help with funeral expenses. The fund has raised almost $12,000 as of Saturday morning.