QUEENS, NY – A St. Albans man was convicted of murder and assault after fatally shooting his nephew and injuring his niece during a family barbecue over Memorial Day weekend in 2023.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that 40-year-old Durran Morgan was found guilty by a jury of second-degree murder, first-degree assault, and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.
Prosecutors said Morgan shot and killed his 25-year-old nephew, Chevaughn Millings, following an argument over payment for food at a family gathering.
The confrontation escalated when Morgan was pushed out of the home by relatives, only to return moments later armed with a handgun.
Gunfire erupted inside family home
According to trial testimony, Morgan entered through the front door and opened fire, striking Millings 10 times in the abdomen and legs. Millings died from his injuries at the scene.
A 20-year-old niece standing nearby was hit multiple times in the leg and grazed across the forehead but survived.
Jury deliberated less than two hours before verdict
Trial proceedings began November 20, with jurors delivering their verdict after less than two hours of deliberation.
Queens Supreme Court Justice Michael Aloise set sentencing for December 16, when Morgan faces a potential term of 50 years to life in prison.
DA condemns violence over petty dispute
District Attorney Katz called the shooting “a complete tragedy,” saying, “What should have been a joyous holiday weekend turned to complete tragedy when the defendant shot and killed his 25-year-old nephew over a petty dispute about food payment.”
Morgan fled to Georgia after the shooting but later returned to New York and surrendered to authorities.