An Ohio man wanted in connection with the murders of his parents was arrested Wednesday evening after attempting to flee the United States through the Port Huron border crossing. According to the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, 24-year-old Maxwell L. Anatra was taken into custody by Canadian officials shortly after 5:30 p.m. when he crossed into Canada. He is now being held in St. Clair County, Michigan, while arrangements are made for his return to Ohio.
The investigation began around 10 a.m. Wednesday, November 19 when a coworker of 61-year-old Lisa R. Anatra called 911 requesting a welfare check at her home on N. Henry Street in Crestline. The coworker reported that Lisa had not shown up for work and believed they saw blood at the residence. Crestline Police responded and requested assistance from the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office. After forcing entry into the home, officers found Lisa deceased inside the residence. A second victim, 63-year-old Matthew Lindsey Anatra, was found dead inside a detached garage on the property.
Family members told investigators that the couple’s son, Maxwell Anatra, had been at the home the night before but could not be reached throughout the day. Detectives later learned he had traveled to Michigan earlier that morning and might attempt to leave the country. A murder warrant was issued, and local authorities coordinated with Homeland Security in an effort to locate him.
Hours later, Homeland Security notified detectives that Anatra had been arrested by Canadian officials after crossing into Canada. He was quickly returned to U.S. custody and transported to the St. Clair County Jail, where he will remain until he is returned to Crawford County to face charges.
