In the quiet community of Barryton, Michigan, a tragedy unfolded that left friends and family mourning the loss of Richard Simko, a 41-year-old man known to his loved ones as Rick. On the morning of March 6, 2024, Simko was found deceased in his home located in the 5000 block of Truman Road in Fork Township. An investigation by the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office revealed a brutal scene; Simko had been both shot and bludgeoned to death.
The initial shock of the violent act was soon
compounded by the identity of the alleged perpetrator. A 16-year-old male was taken into custody on a felony warrant for homicide in connection with Simko's death. Those close to the family identified the teenage suspect as Simko's own son. A family friend described Simko as a 'nice man and a great father' who was dedicated to caring for his children, including his son. He was remembered by a neighbor as a good, hard-working man who enjoyed working on vehicles.
Authorities revealed that the juvenile suspect was a ward of the Osceola County Probate Court at the time of the murder. He had a prior history of committing crimes in Osceola County and had spent the previous year in an out-of-state custody program. Following his arrest, the 16-year-old was held in custody awaiting arraignment.
