Queens man convicted of murder for killing nephew during BBQ altercation over food.

A 40-year-old man from Queens has been convicted of murder following a fatal shooting incident that occurred during a family barbecue on May 27, 2023. Durran Morgan was found guilty by a jury on November 20, 2023, of second-degree murder, assault, and weapons possession related to the deadly altercation involving his 25-year-old nephew, Chevaughn Millings.

The trial lasted four days, during which the jury deliberated for less than two hours before reaching a verdict. The prosecution’s case was strengthened by evidence presented that showed Morgan engaged in a violent reaction over a trivial argument regarding the payment for food during the gathering. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz remarked that what should have been a festive holiday weekend devolved into a tragedy, with the shooting occurring in the presence of family members. She emphasized the point that gun violence is an unacceptable response to any disagreement.

On the night of the incident, the confrontation reportedly began when Millings and Morgan quarreled about who would cover the cost of chicken bought for the barbecue. After being pushed out of the house, Morgan retrieved a firearm from his waistband and returned to shoot his nephew ten times. In the process, Morgan’s 20-year-old niece was also injured, receiving multiple gunshot wounds, but has since survived her injuries.

Following the tragic event, Medics transported both victims to Jamaica Hospital, where Millings was pronounced dead while his niece continued her recovery. Eyewitness accounts indicated that the relatives present at the gathering were left distraught by the senseless violence.

Before this incident, Morgan had a history of domestic violence allegations, including incidents where he was accused of beating a daughter and mistreating a girlfriend. Notably, he had been previously arrested for domestic violence and was reported to have escaped to Georgia after the shooting but later returned to New York to surrender to authorities at the 113th Precinct.

Morgan’s sentencing is scheduled for December 16, 2023, and he potentially faces a lengthy prison term of 50 years to life. This case underscores the recurring issue of gun violence within familial disputes, prompting renewed discussions about public safety and preventive measures against similar incidents in the future.