Man allegedly fatally shot neighbor after victim’s daughter touched mulch in his yard

CANTON, Mich. (TCN) -- A 47-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of shooting and killing his neighbor after the victim’s daughter allegedly touched mulch on the suspect’s lawn.

According to the Canton Police Department, on Aug. 10 at approximately 11:48 a.m., officers responded to the 200 block of Cornell Street regarding shots fired following a "brief confrontation by the suspect toward the victim." Officers found the victim in the street with a gunshot wound and moved him to safety for immediate medical assistance. Paramedics transported him to a nearby hospital, where he died from his injuries.

Canton Police said the suspect, Devereaux Christopher Johnson, barricaded himself inside his house. Johnson eventually surrendered to police and was arrested on charges of premeditated first-degree murder, possession of a firearm by a felon, and two counts of felony firearm.

The Michigan Republican Party identified the victim as Nathan Morris and released a statement regarding his killing. Morris reportedly worked as an engineer for Ford Motors, ran for the local school board, and stayed involved in local Republican politics. The statement says Morris and his family were taking a walk on Saturday when "his daughter touched the mulch of one of the neighbors."

Johnson allegedly retrieved a gun and threatened Morris and his family. Morris reportedly urged his family to go home "and said that he would try and defuse the situation."

The Michigan GOP described Morris as "one of those few guys who are near perfect. He would do no harm and think no harm."

WJBK-TV reports Johnson has had past run-ins with the police and trouble with his neighbors. Prosecutors reportedly motioned for a competency hearing.

Canton Police said Johnson is being held without bond.

If convicted, Johnson could face up to life in prison without parole.

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