In Canton Township, a 47-year-old man has been arrested and charged with the alleged murder of his unarmed neighbor, a father of two. The man is now facing the possibility of life in prison. This tragic event occurred on a Saturday morning, on the quiet residential street of Cornell, near Cherry Hill and Sheldon roads.
The accused, identified as Devereaux Christopher Johnson, reportedly sparked an argument when he saw his neighbor, 35-year-old Nathan Morris, strolling down the street. As the situation escalated, it is alleged that Johnson took out a handgun and shot Morris multiple times. Morris, who was unarmed, didn’t stand a chance against such violence.
By the time the first responders arrived at the bloody scene, they immediately rushed Morris to the hospital. Despite the medical team’s best efforts, Morris couldn’t survive the severe gunshot injuries and was declared dead at the hospital.
After the shooting, Johnson reportedly holed up inside his house, refusing to come out. But after some negotiation from the officers, he finally agreed to surrender peacefully. At the moment, he’s behind bars, charged with first-degree murder, felon in possession of a firearm, and two counts of felony firearm. A judge decided that Johnson will remain in custody without bond.
Johnson’s next date in court is scheduled for 23 August. A conviction could lead to life imprisonment for him, ensuring that he pays dearly for his alleged lethal actions.
As the investigation continues, the quiet community of Canton Township is left shocked and mourning the loss of a neighbor and father, taken too soon under such tragic circumstances. Our hearts go out to them during this time of loss.
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
NOVI STAFF WRITER The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
