GLENBURN, ME – Authorities have detained a 19-year-old man following a brutal attack on his grandmother that left her with life-threatening injuries, officials said.

Ethan William Herbert, of Glenburn, was taken into custody Sunday after sheriff’s deputies responded to a 911 call reporting a violent assault at a family residence. Upon arrival, deputies found a 59-year-old woman suffering from severe wounds. She was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment.

According to investigators, Herbert had fled the scene prior to their arrival but was located shortly afterward and arrested without further incident. Law enforcement officials say Herbert’s grandmother identified him as her attacker and recounted a chilling motive behind the violence.

Investigators say the victim told officers that Herbert claimed supernatural voices compelled him to carry out the attack, allegedly referencing the “Grim Reaper” as the source of his orders. She said Herbert had previously been banned from the home, but returned that day, leading to an argument with his grandfather. When she attempted to intervene, she was allegedly assaulted, sustaining critical injuries from a hatchet and a knife.

The police report indicates Herbert apologized to his grandmother before attacking her, reportedly stating, “I’m sorry, Grammie, but I have to,” before striking her numerous times. The blows caused significant trauma, necessitating surgical intervention, including the partial removal of her skull.

During questioning, Herbert allegedly told police that he had been hearing voices instructing him to harm his grandmother. He reportedly expressed that these voices encouraged him to “put her out of her misery,” attributing the guidance to the “Grim Reaper.”

Following his arrest, Herbert was charged with attempted murder, domestic violence, aggravated assault, and aggravated assault. He is currently being held in the Penobscot County Jail.

Officials have not released additional updates regarding the victim’s condition, but described her injuries as grave. Authorities in Glenburn continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the attack, including possible mental health concerns.

Community members in Glenburn have expressed shock over the incident, with many calling for increased mental health resources and support in the region.

Herbert has not yet entered a plea, and it remains unclear if he has obtained legal representation. An initial court appearance is expected in the coming days.