Cedar Rapids police were called about 2 a.m. on Oct. 14, 2021, to check out suspicious noises coming from a home and found the then-17-year-old Orton covered in blood. He told police he used a knife to stab his parents and then used an ax on his mother when she appeared to be alive, according to a criminal complaint.
IOWA TEEN 'COVERED IN BLOOD' ADMITS TO KILLING PARENTS WITH KNIFE AND AXE, POLICE SAY
The case was delayed as defense lawyers argued Orton suffered from a mental disorder and wasn't competent to stand trial. A judge ultimately ruled he was competent.
An Iowa teen pleaded guilty to killing his parents in 2021. He used a knife and ax to kill them in an effort to "take charge of his life."
Police say Orton admitted to killing his parents as part of a desire to "take charge of his life," according to the complaint.
The judge will set a sentencing date for Orton later.