Uncle's brutal family murder trial: Tears in court

Paul Caneiro, 59, emotionally broke down in court on February 7, 2026, as a medical examiner presented autopsy findings of his 11-year-old nephew, Jesse. Caneiro stands accused of the November 20, 2018 murders of his brother Keith, sister-in-law Jennifer, and their two children, Jesse and Sophia. The family was found deceased in their Colts Neck mansion, which was subsequently set on fire, along with Caneiro's own home, in an alleged attempt to mislead investigators.

Prosecutors contend that Caneiro committed the murders after his brother discovered he was embezzling funds from an insurance trust account. He faces multiple charges, including murder and aggravated arson, with a potential sentence of life without parole if convicted. Evidence presented included DNA from Sophia found on jeans in Caneiro's basement and a knife matching her DNA.

Forensic scientists detailed the gruesome injuries sustained by the victims. Jesse's autopsy revealed stab wounds to his arm and torso, and potentially a gunshot-like injury to his chin. Jennifer was shot and stabbed multiple times, while Keith sustained five gunshot wounds. Sophia also suffered extensive injuries throughout her body. Caneiro has pleaded not guilty to all charges.