‘I’m sorry, Grammie’: Teen tried to put grandma ‘out of her misery’ with a hatchet because the ‘Grim Reaper’ gave him orders
A 19-year-old Maine resident, Ethan William Herbert, is in custody following a violent attack on his grandmother. Deputies from the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office responded to a Glenburn home late Sunday after reports of an assault. Upon arrival, they found Herbert’s 59‑year‑old grandmother suffering from serious injuries and rushed to the hospital by ambulance .
Herbert reportedly fled the residence but was quickly taken into custody along Pushaw Road. According to court records, the grandmother informed police that Herbert had been forbidden from the home following an earlier dispute with his grandfather. In the hours leading up to the incident, she attempted to calm him and suggested he seek help or shelter.
Court documents reveal harrowing details: the victim said Herbert swung a hatchet at her head and arms, declaring, “I’m sorry, Grammie, but I have to…” before launching the attack. She sustained severe injuries, including a deep gash to her forehead—so serious that part of her skull was removed. She also received six to eight stitches above her right eye.
In interviews, Herbert stated that he had heard voices—“the Grim Reaper”—ordering him to “just do it, kill her, put her out of her misery.” He admitted he tried to resist but ultimately lost control . Court paperwork further mentions he acknowledged using methamphetamine (“smoked ice”) and that he has a prescription for medication to treat auditory hallucinations, which he had reportedly not taken .
Herbert has been charged with attempted murder, domestic violence elevated aggravated assault, and domestic violence aggravated assault. He was held without bail at Penobscot County Jail following his first court appearance, where a $15,000 bail was set—though it remains unpaid
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