SHIAWASSEE COUNTY, Mich. (WEYI) — Mark Latunski has been officially charged with first-degree murder for the brutal killing of Kevin Bacon after a two-day hearing in Shiawassee County. Latunski had previously admitted to the crime, and the court’s role was to determine whether he would face first-degree or second-degree murder charges. Following the hearing, the judge ruled that Latunski will face first-degree murder charges, marking a significant decision in the case.
The murder occurred in December 2019, when Bacon’s body was discovered in Latunski’s home in Shiawassee County. Bacon, 25, had met Latunski through a dating app, and the two reportedly met in person before the horrific incident took place. According to investigators, Bacon’s body was found hung upside down, with a slit throat. In a particularly disturbing twist, it was revealed that Latunski had also removed and consumed Bacon’s testicles.
Latunski’s confession to the crime, as well as the shocking details of the murder, have horrified the community and brought widespread attention to the case. The brutal nature of the crime has made it a subject of national news, highlighting the terrifying outcomes that can result from dangerous online encounters.
Latunski’s sentencing is set for December 15 at 8:30 a.m. If convicted of first-degree murder, he faces life in prison without the possibility of parole. This decision is expected to bring a sense of closure to the victim’s family and the community as they come to terms with the tragedy.
As the case progresses to sentencing, it continues to raise important questions about the dangers of online dating and the need for awareness and caution when interacting with strangers on the internet.