In a tragic turn of events, retired attorneys Michael, 72, and Darla McKenzie, 68, were found fatally shot in their home in rural Alabama on January 28, 2025.
The Etowah County Sheriff’s Office has arrested their son-in-law, Christopher Scott Johnson, 38, who is now charged with murder.
The McKenzies, from Roswell, Georgia, were known for their legal careers, with Mike McKenzie notably working on arson cases and helping to exonerate three wrongfully convicted men in Michigan.
Darla McKenzie was a real estate law specialist, having retired from a Georgia law firm.


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The couple’s unexpected deaths have sent shockwaves through their community, and tributes have poured in from colleagues and friends, particularly for Mike McKenzie’s work with the Michigan Innocence Project.
Authorities have confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the local community and are committed to ensuring justice is served in this case.