Cleveland double murder suspect denied bond; victim’s parents spoke to News 12

CLEVELAND, Tennessee(WDEF) – The parents and grandparents of two people found shot to death inside a Cleveland home sat within feet of the man accused of killing their daughter and grandson.

Larry and Cindy Corriher sat at the front of Judge Sheridan Randolph’s courtroom to learn if the man accused of killing their daughter and grandson would be issued a bond to get out of jail.

They quickly learned that Ross Anderson, 31, wasn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Judge Randolph ordered Anderson to be held without bond while he fights two counts of first degree murder.

"Do you understand those charges," asked the judge.

"Yes your honor," replied Anderson.

According to an arrest affidavit obtained by News 12, Anderson killed his girlfriend Rachel Johnson; her four-year old son and the family dog on the night of December 6. All three victims were found in a bathroom inside their rental home in the 200 block of Hillview Drive. According to Cleveland Police, all three were shot in the head.

The four-year old was reportedly killed while clutching a toy as he took a bath.

Anderson was later captured in Mursfreeboro. After being taken into custody and sent to mental hospital for evaluation, Anderson reportedly confessed to the crimes.

"Your honor, this defendant has made numerous admissions to law enforcement agencies. He admitted his conduct and has given them different reasons why he did what he did," said the prosecutor.

When News 12 spoke to Johnson’s parents, they both talked about how their faith has helped them get through a Christmas holiday without the two people they cared about the most. They also explained why their daughter and grandson were so special.

"She was brilliant, very smart and just got her Master’s degree in biology. She had a bright future ahead of her," said Johnson’s father.

"My grandson was always so bubbly and precious all the time. My daughter and I were always so close. You can’t get this back," said Johnson’s mother.

When it was all said and done, Anderson was led back to the jail in handcuffs, only to await his next day in court which has been scheduled for January 20.