The Brownings were slain in Cockeysville early Feb. 2. According to police, Nicholas Browning then spent the night and most of the next day with friends before he returned and reported finding his father's body.
He was charged after confessing to police and telling investigators where he had stashed the weapon, a handgun belonging to his father, authorities have said. Police have said Browning had disagreements with his father, John Browning, but otherwise have not spoken about possible motives.
Also killed were the teen's mother, Tamara, and his two younger brothers, 14-year-old Benjamin and 11-year-old Gregory.
"Based upon the nature of this case, we decided to move quickly to the next phase," said Baltimore County State's Attorney Scott D. Shellenberger, who declined to discuss details.
