A Michigan homeowner is charged with manslaughter after fatally shooting a teen during an alleged burglary in his garage. Prosecutors say he used excessive force, while his attorney argues it was self-defense.
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WHITE LAKE TOWNSHIP, MI (3-minute read) — A young Michigan homeowner is at the center of a controversial legal battle after a deadly shooting during an early morning break-in at his detached garage. Dayton Knapton, 24, of White Lake Township, now faces a felony manslaughter charge in connection with the July 8 death of 17-year-old Sivan Wilson.
According to the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office, the incident occurred around 1 a.m. at Knapton’s home on Mandon Drive. Prosecutors say Knapton took his 9mm semiautomatic handgun and fired two rounds through a locked, windowless garage door, then continued to fire five more shots as suspects fled the scene. One of those rounds fatally struck Wilson, while another suspect was also wounded. Knapton allegedly reloaded his firearm after the suspects began to flee and returned outside.
Authorities say Wilson was not given medical attention for over 30 minutes after the shooting and later died from his injuries.
Prosecutor Karen McDonald acknowledged the importance of firearm rights and home defense under Michigan law but argued Knapton went beyond what is legally justifiable. She stated that his actions potentially endangered the surrounding community, emphasizing that the shots were fired outside the home at fleeing individuals.
Knapton’s attorney, Dov Lustig, maintains the shooting was a defensive reaction to a highly volatile situation. He pointed out that Knapton had experienced multiple break-ins previously and that he believed the intruders posed a serious threat. Lustig also argued that the description from prosecutors is vague, especially regarding where the suspects were located during the shooting.
Knapton was arraigned on November 7 on charges of manslaughter, assault with intent to do great bodily harm, and two counts of felony firearm. He posted a $200,000 surety bond and is scheduled to return to court later this month.
Meanwhile, five individuals accused of participating in the break-in, including one adult and four juveniles, are facing separate charges. The adult’s arraignment was still pending as of Nov. 7.
Michigan’s self-defense laws do not require homeowners to retreat if attacked in their home, but the law’s protections become more complex when the threat is outside or already retreating. The outcome of this case may hinge on whether the court views Knapton’s use of force as reasonable given the circumstances.
Understanding Michigan Self-Defense Law in Home Intrusions
Michigan’s Self-Defense Act allows individuals to use deadly force when they reasonably believe they are in danger of death or great bodily harm, especially when inside their dwelling. However, that protection may not extend as clearly to detached structures like garages, particularly when the threat is leaving rather than advancing. The specifics of where and how force is used are critical in cases like this one.
Safety Tip: Know the laws in your state regarding the use of deadly force. Understanding the legal definition of a “dwelling” and when force is justified can make all the difference in high-stress situations. Safe and responsible firearm ownership means preparing for more than just pulling the trigger; it means knowing when not to.