Lonut "crazy ass loknut" Silviu Savin, a Romanian Counter-Strike gamer, was devastated when his mother attempted to stop his addiction to the game by simply not paying the internet bill. The adoptive mother paid alright; with her life. After Lonut was unsuccessful logging onto the internet to play Counter-Strike, he stabbed his adoptive mother 17 times, which ultimately, lead to her death.
Even more concerning is that the 17 year old continued on with his day, traveling to a local internet cafe to play Counter-Strike, leaving his adoptive mother to die in their home. Lonut was said to have played for 4 hours, and then turning himself to local authorities.
Ones who were close the the teen noticed that he was quiet and independent, but were shocked that he was capable of doing such a horrible thing. The owner of the internet cafe stated that Lonut was quiet when he played the game, and cursed occasionally, but never did he expect the boy to commit such a crime. Teachers and fellow students also noted that he was very independent, but this type of action was never expected.
Professionals state that getting involved with your children regarding gaming is a great way to keep them connected with you. Microsoft offers a great tool that allows families to connect, and possibly, prevent happenings like this again. Microsoft encourages you to “Get the whole family in on the fun with Family Game Night. It happens every Tuesday on Xbox 360® and on Xbox LIVE®. This is the perfect opportunity to spend some quality time with your kids on the couch playing some of the great family games.”
Lonut is being held in a psychiatric hospital where is going under evaluation. Once a trial is announced, if he is found guilty, he can face up to 12 years in prison.
