A Detroit man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say a violent confrontation on the city’s north side ended with a fatal shooting, a body dumped in a vacant lot, and a two-hour police standoff that resulted in his arrest.
Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy announced charges Friday against Michael Lovell-J Knox, 39, in the killing of Christian Epps, 27. According to investigators, both men were inside a home near Conant and 7 Mile Road on October 30 when a physical fight escalated. During the altercation, Knox allegedly retrieved a shotgun and shot Epps.
Police say Knox then attempted to cover his tracks by moving the victim’s body to a vacant lot in the 19300 block of Fleming Street. Epps had been reported missing by his mother, and officers later discovered his body at that location.
On November 3, detectives developed information linking Knox to a residence in the 12100 block of Glenfield Avenue. When officers attempted to make contact, Knox barricaded himself inside. Detroit’s Special Response Team was called in, and after a two-hour standoff the suspect surrendered and was taken into custody.
Knox was arraigned in 36th District Court on charges of Second-Degree Murder, Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person, Mutilation of a Dead Body, and two counts of Felony Firearm. Magistrate Delphia Burton ordered him held with no bond, citing the seriousness of the allegations.
Michigan Department of Corrections records show Knox has an extensive criminal history and previously served prison time for armed robbery and felony firearm convictions in Oakland County.
A probable cause conference is scheduled for December 3, followed by a preliminary exam on December 10.
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