PRESS RELEASE

January 29, 2025

Suspect Charged, Following Shooting in Etowah County

Etowah County, AL - On January 28, 2025, at approximately 12:30 PM, the Etowah County Sheriff's Office responded to a shooting incident on Coats Bend Circle in rural Etowah County. Upon arrival, deputies discovered two adult victims, an adult male and an adult female, both suffering from gunshot wounds. Emergency responders, including deputies, fire department personnel, and ambulance crews, worked at the scene to perform lifesaving measures.

One of the victims, later identified as Darla McKenzie (68), was airlifted to a Birmingham medical facility in critical condition but was pronounced deceased shortly thereafter. The second victim, Michael McKenzie (72), was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Based on information gathered from 911 calls and information at the scene, deputies quickly identified a potential suspect. With the cooperation of the Ashville, Steele, Glencoe and Rainbow City Police Departments, the suspect, Christopher Scott Johnson, was swiftly located and detained.

Johnson has been charged with Capital Murder and is currently being held without bond.

The victims, Michael and Darla McKenzie, were residents of Roswell, Georgia. The identities of the victims were confirmed and next of kin have been notified.

"This is an incredibly difficult time for the McKenzie family, and our hearts go out to them. The loss of loved ones in such a tragic manner is devastating, and we extend our deepest sympathy to their family and friends. To the Etowah County community, I want to assure you that we are committed to ensuring justice is served, and there is no threat to your safety", states Sheriff Jonathon Horton.

The Etowah County Sheriff's Office would like to express gratitude to the following agencies for their prompt response and assistance in this case: Coats Bend, Hokes Bluff, Ball Play Bend, and Glencoe Fire Departments; AMED Ambulance Service; Survival Flight; Steele, Ashville, Rainbow City, Glencoe, Jacksonville State Center for Applied Forensics and Gadsden Police Departments.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation unfolds.

Christopher Scott Johnson