A Georgia couple was found shot to death in Alabama last week, and their son-in-law has been charged with their murders.
According to a report from the Gadsden Times, the Etowah County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call at a residence where they discovered Michael McKenzie, 72, and Darla McKenzie, 68, who had sustained gunshot wounds. Tragically, Michael McKenzie was pronounced dead at the scene, while his wife passed away shortly after being transported to a hospital in Birmingham.
Following the investigation, deputies identified Christopher Scott Johnson as the suspect. The 38-year-old man is married to the McKenzies’ daughter, and information obtained from the 911 call as well as evidence collected at the scene helped in confirming his involvement.
Police from Ashville, Glencoe, Rainbow City, and Steele then helped the sheriff’s office find Johnson and bring him into custody.
Sheriff Jonathon Horton revealed that Johnson and the McKenzies’ daughter resided in the house where the incident occurred, while the elderly couple was visiting from their home in Roswell, Georgia.
“This is an incredibly difficult time for the McKenzie family, and our hearts go out to them,” Horton said. “The loss of loved ones in such a tragic manner is devastating, and we extend our deepest sympathy to their family and friends. To the Etowah County community, I want to assure you that we are committed to ensuring justice is served, and there is no threat to your safety.”
Johnson has been charged with capital murder, the Atlanta Journal Constitution said.
Darla McKenzie was a former partner with the Atlanta law firm Morris, Manning and Martin, specializing in real estate development and finance, the news paper said. She graduated from Emory University’s College of Law in 1980. Michael McKenzie was a defensive back with the Georgia Tech football team from 1970 to 1974.
