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Man pleads guilty to beating roommate to death with frying pan

TACOMA, Wash. — A South Hill man pleaded guilty Thursday to killing his roommate with a frying pan two years ago.

Quick Facts:

  • Victim Justin Morris, 18, was killed in 2013; body had been missing
  • Michael Breer led police to location of Morris' body Tuesday after 2 years
  • Breer pleaded guilty to his murder
  • Judge sentenced Breer to 16.5 years

Victim Justin Morris' family told KIRO 7 they believe karma will take care of Michael Breer.

The victim’s mother, Tracey Morris, has waited two years to learn where the body of her son was hidden. Friday is the second anniversary of his murder.

“Getting up every day just trying to get through and trying to get through and not think about where he could be,” said Tracey Morris.

On Tuesday, Breer led Pierce County detectives to a pond in Puyallup where he hid Justin Morris' body.

Thursday, Justin Morris' family and friends filled a Tacoma courtroom, wearing green wristbands as Breer entered a guilty plea for the crime.

Morris' family winced as attorneys recalled how Breer beat Morris to death with a frying pan in the South Hill home they shared and then disposed of the body.

The judge sentenced Breer to 16.5 years in prison.

Breer was given the chance to address the court about the crime or to express remorse, but declined. Breers' family and his attorney didn't want to talk either.

While the conviction won't bring her son back, Justin Morris' mother said she can at least rest a little easier.

Justin Morris' would have turned 21 at the end of this month.

KIRO

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