Everett man released from jail pending death investigation’s outcome

Man held in killing released from jail

An Everett man jailed in connection with his father’s death was released Tuesday pending further investigation.

Nicholas Becktell, 20, was arrested Saturday after he told Snohomish County sheriff’s deputies he’d killed his father, Peter Becktell, 50, during an argument, court records show.

The man was jailed for investigation of second-degree murder and bail was set at $250,000. Snohomish County prosecutors had until 5 p.m. Tuesday to file charges or the man would be released.

Ed Stemler, the prosecutor who oversees violent crimes, said Tuesday charges are pending autopsy results. The Snohomish County Medical Examiner’s Office said Monday the cause and manner of death remain under investigation.

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