ETOWAH COUNTY, AL – A Georgia couple’s visit to rural east Alabama turned fatal after they were shot and killed on Tuesday, leading to the arrest of their son-in-law, who is now charged with capital murder, authorities confirmed.
The suspect, Christopher Scott Johnson, 38, is accused of fatally shooting his in-laws, 68-year-old Darla McKenzie and 72-year-old Michael McKenzie, in what authorities are describing as a brutal and calculated attack.
The McKenzies, residents of Roswell, Georgia, had traveled to Etowah County, Alabama, to visit a home located on Coats Bend Circle when the horrific crime unfolded.
Johnson was apprehended hours after the shooting and is currently being held without bond at the Etowah County Jail as investigators work to determine the full motive behind the slayings.
A Deadly Afternoon in Rural Alabama
According to the Etowah County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to 911 calls reporting gunfire at approximately 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 30, 2025.
Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered a gruesome sight—both Darla and Michael McKenzie had sustained multiple gunshot wounds.
Michael McKenzie was pronounced dead at the scene, while his wife, Darla McKenzie, was still alive but in critical condition. Emergency medical personnel quickly airlifted her to UAB Hospital in Birmingham, where she succumbed to her injuries a short time later.
The McKenzies’ daughter—who is also Johnson’s wife—was present in the home when the shooting occurred and was the one who called 911, frantically reporting the attack.
“This is an incredibly difficult time for the McKenzie family, and our hearts go out to them,” said Etowah County Sheriff Jonathon Horton. “The loss of loved ones in such a tragic manner is devastating, and we extend our deepest sympathy to their family and friends.”
Investigators, aided by multiple law enforcement agencies, worked swiftly to identify Christopher Scott Johnson as the primary suspect. He was located and taken into custody without incident by officers from the Ashville, Steele, Glencoe, and Rainbow City police departments.
What Led to the Deadly Shooting?
Authorities have not yet disclosed a specific motive for the killings, but initial reports suggest a history of domestic turmoil between Johnson and his in-laws.
“This was not a random act of violence,” Sheriff Horton stated. “We are actively working to determine what events led up to this horrific tragedy.”
Court records show that Johnson has a criminal history, including previous charges related to domestic disturbances and firearm violations. However, it remains unclear if any past incidents directly involved the McKenzies.
A Daughter’s Heartbreaking 911 Call
The McKenzies’ daughter, who was home at the time of the shooting, is now at the center of the investigation as detectives try to piece together the timeline of events.
Reports indicate that she was visibly distraught when officers arrived and was providing life-saving aid to her mother before emergency responders took over.
“She was in shock, telling dispatchers her husband had shot her parents,” said a law enforcement source familiar with the case. “She stayed on the phone until officers arrived and was cooperative with investigators.”
Authorities are not treating her as a suspect but are interviewing her extensively to establish a clearer picture of Johnson’s potential motives.
Community Shocked by Double Homicide
Neighbors and friends of the McKenzies expressed shock and sadness upon learning of their deaths.
“They were such kind people,” said Barbara Langford, a longtime neighbor in Roswell, Georgia. “I can’t even begin to understand how something like this could happen to them.”
Many who knew the couple described them as devoted parents and grandparents, well-respected in their community.
“Mike was a retired engineer, and Darla worked in education for years,” said a family friend. “They were generous, loving people who didn’t deserve this.”
Residents of Coats Bend Circle, where the shooting occurred, said they rarely see violent crime in their quiet community.
“We never have anything like this happen around here,” said James Walker, a local resident. “It’s just awful.”
Legal Ramifications: Johnson Faces Capital Murder Charges
Christopher Scott Johnson now faces capital murder charges, meaning he could face the death penalty if convicted.
Alabama law defines capital murder as a murder committed under aggravated circumstances, such as killing multiple victims or murdering a family member with intent.
“We are committed to ensuring justice is served,” Sheriff Horton stated.
Given the brutality of the crime, prosecutors will likely pursue the harshest possible penalties.
Johnson is expected to make his first court appearance in the coming days, where a judge will formally read the charges against him.
Because capital murder is a non-bailable offense in Alabama, Johnson remains in custody without bond as he awaits his legal proceedings.
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to gather more evidence, including:
- Ballistic analysis of the firearm used in the shooting
- Phone records and text messages between Johnson and the victims
- Surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses
- Statements from family members and witnesses
Sheriff Horton emphasized that anyone with additional information should come forward.
“If anyone in the community has any knowledge that could assist in this case, we urge them to contact our department immediately,” he said.
The Etowah County Sheriff’s Office is working closely with state and federal investigators to ensure a thorough and meticulous investigation.
Remembering Michael and Darla McKenzie
In the wake of their tragic deaths, the McKenzie family is focusing on honoring their loved ones.
Funeral arrangements are currently being planned, with services expected to take place in Roswell, Georgia, where the couple lived.
A GoFundMe page has been set up by family friends to help with funeral costs and support for their daughter as she navigates this heartbreaking loss.
“We want to remember Mike and Darla for the amazing people they were,” said a close friend. “They were kind, generous, and always put their family first. This tragedy has left a hole in our hearts that can never be filled.”
A Family Torn Apart
What should have been a simple visit between family members turned into a horrific crime that ended in two senseless deaths.
As Christopher Scott Johnson sits behind bars, awaiting trial for capital murder, the McKenzie family is left searching for answers in the wake of an unthinkable tragedy.
For now, their loved ones, friends, and community members are mourning the loss of two cherished individuals whose lives were stolen far too soon.
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