An 83-year-old grandfather in the US has been hailed as a hero after he died saving his young granddaughter from a violent attack allegedly carried out by the child’s nanny. David Ong, a much-loved father and grandfather, was killed inside his daughter’s Royal Oak home on 24 October while trying to shield his two-year-old granddaughter from harm.
According to police, Ong had gone to the home after his daughter, Katie, became concerned when she was unable to reach the nanny, 35-year-old Samantha Rae Booth, who had cared for the child for two years. When Ong failed to respond to messages himself, Katie asked her brother-in-law to check on the pair.
What he found was described by Royal Oak Police Chief Michael Moore as “one of the most disturbing scenes” officers had ever encountered. Ong was discovered in the basement, fatally wounded after being repeatedly stabbed with a screwdriver. Booth, allegedly covered in blood and in a manic state, was found nearby.
The brother-in-law grabbed the toddler and tried to flee, but Booth allegedly chased him through the street still clutching the weapon. Neighbours heard screams and helped the man and child to safety before calling for help. Police arrived moments later and arrested Booth after a brief foot chase. Officers reported that she had stripped naked and appeared incoherent.
Authorities later found psychedelic mushrooms and marijuana in Booth’s purse. Investigators believe drug use may have played a role in the attack, though toxicology results are still pending. Booth, who has no prior criminal history, faces charges including first-degree murder, second-degree child abuse, assault with a dangerous weapon, and multiple counts of resisting police. She was denied bail after refusing to appear in court, reportedly remaining naked in her cell.
Royal Oak Police confirmed that during her transport to the station, Booth allegedly confessed, saying “I did it” and admitting she had attacked Ong.
Family and friends have described Ong as a man of faith and compassion, known for his humility, kindness, and devotion to his loved ones. His daughter, Kelley Ong Smith, wrote on social media that her father “died tragically while protecting his cherished three-year-old granddaughter,” calling him “a gentle giant” and “the best man I know.”
Ong’s obituary paid tribute to his life of service and generosity. Married for more than 60 years to his wife Jacqueline, he was a father of four and grandfather to 11. The tribute described him as “deeply caring, a true friend, and a steady source of encouragement and support.” It also noted his passion for sports, music, and family, saying he “rarely missed a chance to cheer for his Wolverines, Lions, and Tigers.”
Police Chief Moore praised Ong’s bravery, saying, “David Ong’s last act was one of extraordinary courage and love. He gave his life to protect his granddaughter. His family’s loss is unimaginable, and our community mourns with them.”
Booth remains in custody at the Oakland County Jail and is due to appear in court again on 7 November.
The Ong family has asked for privacy as they grieve their beloved patriarch, remembering him not only as a hero but as a man whose life was defined by love, faith, and family.
