A member of the group known as Zizians faces murder charges for allegedly being involved in the shooting deaths of her parents at their Pennsylvania home on her 30th birthday. On Wednesday, Delaware County District Attorney Tanner Rouse revealed evidence that implicates Michelle Zajko in the crime. Investigators used doorbell camera footage, ballistics data, and cellphone records to conclude that Zajko is linked to the deaths of Rita and Richard Zajko.
The couple was found shot in a room filled with Michelle’s childhood toys on New Year’s Eve, 2022. While investigators are certain of Michelle’s involvement, they have not identified any co-conspirators yet. Rouse stated, “We are very certain that Michelle Zajko was in the home and arranged for the death of her parents.”
Zajko, who has been in Maryland jail on different charges since February 2025, denies the accusations. She suggested in court filings that her father might have killed her mother before taking his own life. In an April 2025 “Open Letter to the World,” Zajko stated, “I didn’t murder my parents.”
“At this time we do not know who her co-conspirators were, but we are very certain that Michelle Zajko was in the home and arranged for the death of her parents.” – Tanner Rouse
The deaths are among several linked to the Zizians, a group of highly intelligent computer scientists. They are allegedly involved in various incidents, including a California attack and a Vermont highway shootout. Evidence in the Pennsylvania case includes a video showing two people leaving a car and shouts of distress. While no weapon was found, Zajko had a list detailing her mistakes, and shell casings matched ammunition from her Vermont home.
Authorities have charged Zajko with murder, burglary, and conspiracy in her parents’ deaths. She also faces charges related to the death of U.S. Border Patrol Agent David Maland. Arrested in Maryland with Daniel Blank and Jack “Ziz” LaSota in 2025, Zajko’s connection to other crimes across the country is under investigation. All three pleaded not guilty to various charges.
Despite a competency evaluation request for LaSota, her attorneys reject the cult label for the group. Zajko claims their Maryland arrest halted efforts to exonerate Teresa Youngblut, who faces murder charges in Vermont. Zajko’s family relationships were strained, evident in a January 2022 message expressing issues with her mother. Hours before her death, Rita wished Michelle a happy birthday with no reply.
Richard Zajko’s sister-in-law, Roseanne Zajko, expressed gratitude to law enforcement. “We don’t know yet if the trial will heal the void in our lives, but we are working towards justice for Rick and Rita,” she said. Prosecutors describe the deaths as incomprehensible, showcasing the depth of tragedy involved.
Ramer reported from Concord, New Hampshire.