Man Admits to Killing 87-Year-Old Grandfather with Help of Mom in Bizarre Case

A Michigan man has admitted to killing his 87-year-old grandfather with the help of his mother, and now he’s pleading guilty to second-degree murder. Jacob Kempainen, 22, entered the plea this week in Houghton County, Michigan, where authorities say he shot and killed Alvin Kempainen. As part of the agreement, a charge of murder and several other charges were dropped.

Jacob’s mother, 50-year-old Margaret Kempainen, is still facing charges but has not been offered a plea deal. In exchange for his guilty plea, Jacob is required to cooperate fully and testify against his mother.

This case has taken an unusual twist, with the defendants offering bizarre explanations for their actions. Authorities say Jacob and Margaret allegedly claimed that paranormal activity played a role in Alvin’s death. Jacob even told police that spirits had killed his grandfather before he arrived, claiming that “the spirits” said Alvin had opened a well behind the house and that’s when he was killed.

The tragic incident unfolded in December 2023. Jacob and his mother traveled from Wisconsin to Alvin’s home in Bruce Crossing, Michigan, with the intention of getting money, according to Jacob’s father, who grew suspicious of their visit. Days later, Alvin texted his son saying “the crew” had arrived at his home, but after that, he stopped responding.

A wellness check was requested, and when deputies arrived on December 19, they found Alvin dead from a gunshot wound. Jacob and Margaret were soon apprehended in Iowa after being spotted on the road.

Jacob’s explanation was chilling, claiming that Alvin was already dead when they arrived, and that the “grandfather” in the home wasn’t really him at all. Margaret also denied that Alvin was her father-in-law, instead suggesting he was acting “like a 20-year-old.”

Jacob is facing sentencing in the coming months, while his mother is set for a jury trial next month. Authorities are focused on securing a conviction against her, hoping that Jacob’s cooperation will help bring justice for Alvin.