A Michigan man is facing manslaughter charges after fatally shooting a 17-year-old who, along with six others, allegedly broke into his garage in the early hours of July 8, reigniting controversy over Michigan’s “Stand Your Ground” law.
Dayton Knapton, 24, was alerted by his home security system around 1 a.m. and, armed with a .9mm handgun, allegedly fired two shots through a windowless garage door, striking Sivan Wilson, 17, according to authorities.
As the group fled, Knapton reportedly fired five more shots, then reloaded and returned outside. Wilson later succumbed to his injuries, and another teenager in the group was shot in the leg.
“The rights to own firearms and protect one’s family and home are fundamental. Those important rights also come with profound responsibility,” said Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald. “Our office worked closely with law enforcement to review the evidence, including the obvious mitigating factors, which led us to these charges. We believe the evidence demonstrates this defendant crossed the line by firing outside his home at fleeing persons. His actions not only took a life but also potentially endangered the surrounding community by firing his weapon into the night.”
However, Knapton’s defense attorney, Dov Lustig, insists the shooting was “stone self-defense,” noting that Knapton’s home had allegedly been broken into multiple times before. Michigan law permits the use of deadly force against a home invader if the resident holds an “honest and reasonable belief” of a threat to their life.
Wilson’s family has expressed a desire for a murder charge, claiming the action suggested “malicious intent.” Knapton pleaded not guilty to the charges in November and was released on a $200,000 cash bond.
Four minors and a 21-year-old who were with Wilson during the incident have been charged with breaking and entering.
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