Michigan Man Charged in Deadly Garage Shooting

A Michigan man who opened fire on a group breaking into his garage over the summer now faces serious charges, including manslaughter.

Prosecutors say 24-year-old Dayton Knapton of White Lake crossed the line when he fired several rounds at seven suspected burglars who broke into his detached garage back in July. One of those rounds killed a 17-year-old boy.

The Shooting That Started It All

According to investigators, Knapton spotted the group on his security cameras and went outside with a 9-millimeter handgun. He allegedly fired two shots through a locked door, then five more as the suspects ran. Prosecutors say he even reloaded and went back outside after the chaos.

A neighbor told local media it wasn’t the first time thieves had targeted Knapton’s garage, and they believed dirt bikes inside might have been the motive.

Prosecutor Says He Went Too Far

Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald said owning a firearm 'comes with a profound responsibility,' adding that the evidence shows Knapton’s actions 'crossed the line' and put others at risk.

Knapton was arraigned Friday on four felony charges and given a $200,000 bond. He pleaded not guilty and was ordered to stay in Michigan, surrender all firearms, and avoid ammunition.

Defense Says It’s About Intent

His attorney says Knapton has no criminal record and insists this case isn’t about what happened, but why it happened, whether he had a legal right to defend his property.

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That’s now the question facing a judge and jury: when does protecting what’s yours become going too far?

Massive Meijer Renovation Nearing Final Completion

Meijer on Hill Road in Mundy Township has been undergoing a renovation and remodel that started in March of last year. The project should be completed the first week of November '25.

Gallery Credit: Jeremy Fenech