Pennsylvania Woman Charged With Parents’ Murders More Than Three Years After Double Homicide

CHESTER HEIGHTS, Pennsylvania — More than three years after a married couple was found murdered inside their Chester Heights home, Pennsylvania authorities have charged the victims’ daughter in the killings.

Michelle Zajko, 33, was charged in connection with the deaths of her parents, Richard and Rita Zajko, whose bodies were discovered on Jan. 2, 2023. Investigators allege she played a role in arranging the killings, which prosecutors say occurred on Dec. 31, 2022.

Authorities announced the charges Wednesday, calling the case the result of years of investigative work. Prosecutors said evidence includes text messages, ballistics analysis, security video, and enhanced audio collected during the investigation.

According to investigators, Richard Zajko, 71, suffered gunshot wounds to his hand and temple, while Rita Zajko, 69, was shot in the back of the head.

Prosecutors allege Zajko did not act alone and said investigators are still working to identify another person seen entering the family’s home before the murders.

The case gained national attention after investigators connected Zajko to a group known as the “Zizians,” which has been linked to several violent incidents across the United States. Authorities have also previously identified Zajko as a person of interest in connection with firearms used in a fatal 2025 shootout involving a U.S. Border Patrol agent in Vermont.

Zajko is currently facing separate charges in Maryland related to trespassing and weapons offenses. She has pleaded not guilty in that case.

The homicide investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue searching for additional suspects.

Photo: Richard and Rita Zajko in 1993. (Courtesy of the Zajko Family)